GUIDELINES FOR THE PLANNING, DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND ... · PLANNING, DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND...

GUIDE L INE S F OR T HE P L A NNING, DE S IGN,C ONS T R UC T ION A ND M A IN T E N A NCEOF RECRE AT ION A L T R A IL S IN S OU T H A US T R A L I A(R E V I S E D 2016)

RECRE AT ION S A

C O N T E N T S

A C K N OW L E D G E M E N T S 3

1.0 I N T R O D U C T I O N 4

1.1 Background 5

1.2 What is a recreational trail? 5

1.3 What and who are these guidelines for? 5

1.4 Structure of these guidelines 6

2.0 R E C R E AT I O N A L T R A I L S OV E R V I E W 7

2.1 Why have recreational trails? 8

2.2 Types of trails 9

2.3 Guiding principles 10

2.4 Types of trail users 11

3.0 S T R AT E G I C A N D L E G I S L AT I V E OV E R V I E W 1 3

3.1 Introduction 14

3.2 State Level 15

3.3 Regional Level 19

3.4 Local Level 19

3.5 Federal Level 21

4.0 R O L E S A N D R E S P O N S I B I L I T I E S 2 2

4.1 Introduction 23

4.2 State Level 24

4.3 Regional Level 25

4.4 Local Level 26

4.5 Peak User Groups 27

5.0 T R A I L P L A N N I N G 2 8

5.1 Introduction 29

5.2 Establish a working group and develop

a plan 29

5.3 Review existing trail provision 29

5.4 Local Government endorsement 29

5.5 Community consultation 30

5.6 Decision 30

5.7 Feasibility study 30

5.8 Concept design 31

5.9 Funding 32

6.0 C O N S U LTAT I O N T E C H N I Q U E S 3 3

6.1 Introduction 34

6.2 Consultation or communication? 34

6.3 Communication and consultation

techniques guidelines 36

7.0 T R A I L D E S I G N A N D C O N S T R U C T I O N 3 7

7.1 Introduction 38

7.2 Trail system 38

7.3 Trail classification 39

7.4 Single or shared-use? 39

7.5 Designing sustainable trails 40

7.6 Constructing the trail 43

7.7 Coastal trails 48

7.8 Urban trails 49

7.9 Signage 50

8.0 M A N A G E M E N T A N D M A I N T E N A N C E 5 5

8.1 Introduction 56

8.2 Memorandum of understanding and

partnership agreements 56

8.3 Trail maintenance and risk

assessment schedules 57

8.4 Conflict management 58

8.5 Education and interpretation 58

8.6 Monitoring and evaluation 59

8.7 Marketing and promotion 59

8.8 Preparing promotional material and maps 60

9.0 C A S E S T U D I E S 6 1

9.1 Introduction 62

9.2 Case study 1 :

Flinders Ranges by Bike 62

9.3 Case Study 2 :

Tom Roberts Horse Trail 65

9.4 Case Study 3 :

Unmade Road Reserves as trail corridors 68

A P P E N D I C E S 7 1

APPENDIX A: Summary of Trail Classes 72

APPENDIX B: Trail Categorisation System 77

APPENDIX C: Trails Planning, Design and Construction

Checklist 80

APPENDIX D: Glossary 82

APPENDIX E: References and Useful Websites 84

APPENDIX F: Example Promotional Brochure: Riesling Trail 85

2

PROVIDING LEADERSHIP, SUPPORT AND ADVOCACY

TO ORGANISATIONS IN THE RECREATION INDUSTRY.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTSPROJECT PARTNERS

This project is an initiative of the Recreation SA Trails

Sub Committee. This committee has representatives

from the following organisations:

Recreation

SA Horse SA

Canoe SA

Bicycle SA

Scuba Diver's Federation of SA

Walking SA

The trails sub committee of Recreation SA is charged

to ensure that sustainable opportunities prevail through

championing best practice techniques through the

planning, design, management and use of recreational

trails in a wide range of environments in both urban and

regional areas.

We acknowledge Urban & Regional Planning Solutions

as the original authors of these guidelines with previous

research undertaken by John Tagliaferri, Nick Bowman

of Bicycle SA and Rod Worthington.

These guidelines have been reviewed and updated by

Recreation SA to reflect changes and contemporary

circumstances.

The review and update was supported by the Office for

Recreation and Sport (ORS)

These guidelines were updated in February 2016

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A C K N O W L E D G E M E N T S



IN T R ODUC T ION

1

1.1 BACKGROUND

1.2 WHAT IS A RECREATIONAL TRAIL?

1.3 WHAT AND WHO ARE THESE GUIDELINES FOR?

1.4 STRUCTURE OF THESE GUIDELINES

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1.1 BA C K G R O U N DA recent review of the State Trails Strategy 2005-2010

(Horse SA 2013) found that a transition to an industry-

led trails committee rather than state-government

led model was required, which included capacity for

dialogue with state & local government.

Accordingly, in 2014 The Office for Recreation and

Sport funded Recreation SA to manage and develop

the Trails Sub Committee. This has seen positive

outcomes for some key issues identified within

the review.

These guidelines were updated subsequent to the

development of a 10 Year South Australian Recreational

Trails Master Plan.

1.2 W H AT I S A R E C R E AT I O N A L T R A I L ?

The South Australian Recreational Trails 10 Year Master

Plan provides the following definition of a recreational

trail: Trails – a pathway for people to explore the natural

world, to connect communities together with place and

to enhance peoples’ lives through new perspectives

gained as we bring humanity out-of-doors. Trails

provide pathways to beautiful natural experiences as

they, improve health and wellbeing of land and people

as they benefit South Australian Residents and visitors

alike through shared positive outdoor experiences.

In most cases, recreational trails are used for non-

motorised recreational pursuits such as walking,

running, cycling, horse riding, canoeing or scuba

diving. However, in some circumstances, trails can be

designed for use by small wheeled vehicles such as

motorised wheelchairs to enable access for people with

mobility impairments.

Importantly, the majority of trails are focused around

areas of environmental and cultural interest or near

major population centres.

The trail corridor of water based trails will often be the

extremities of the river, creek, waterway or simply an

area of water that contains a number of interest points

or the open sea. The trail itself may be a mapped or

frequented route through the waterway. Alternatively,

a water trail may be focused on a single linear feature

such as a reef or archaeological attractions such

as shipwrecks.

1.3 W H AT A N D W H O A R E T H E S E G U I D E L I N E S F O R ?

While it is acknowledged that South Australia has a

strong and varied network of trails, there are many

aspects of the existing trail system that can be

improved through enhancements to trail design, better

linkages between trails and other community assets

and attractions, consistent trail policy, management,

marketing and support for on-going development of

the network.

These guidelines have been prepared to provide

a comprehensive and coordinated document to

provide standards for trails or guidelines to assist the

planning, development, construction, management, and

promotion of recreational trails.

The Australian Standards 2156.1 – 2001 Walking Track

Classification and Signage for Walking Tracks have been

developed however there is a requirement for these

standards to be in a plain English language description

Photo 1: Stirling Linear Park: Semi-urban setting

Photo 2: Mount Barker Linear Park: Urban setting

Photo 3: Mount Lofty to Waterfall Gully Walking Trail: Natural setting

1 . 0 I N T R O D U C T I O N

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to describe the walks to the public. The development of

trails to agreed standards is important for trail planning,

development and maintenance and to ensure trail users

get the most out of their trails and are able to pick the

most appropriate trails for their abilities and enjoyment.

This document will provide links to the standards and

classification systems appropriate for the range of trails

available in South Australia.

These guidelines have been prepared to assist all trail

stakeholders involved in trail planning, development,

construction, management, promotion and use.

The guidelines will be of particular interest and

assistance to:

• trail users

• trail builders

• trail managers

• public land managers (e.g. DEWNR, ForestrySA

and Councils)

• clubs and associations that use trails

• owners of land through which trails pass or

are proposed.

1.4 S T R U C T U R E O F T H E S E G U I D E L I N E S

These guidelines have been structured into nine

chapters. The first four chapters provide a concise

overview of the relevant legislation, strategic

documents and Government Departments which are

involved in the planning, development and management

of recreational trails. These chapters ‘set the scene’ for

the remaining chapters which provide more specific

detail and guidance for new trail proposals.

It is recognised that not all of these guidelines will be

relevant for every proposal for a new recreational trail.

Rather, it is intended that trails proponents will select

what they need from the plethora of information.

Also, the guidelines are designed to provide pointers

to other sources of information rather than trying to

encompass all existing material relating to the planning,

development and management of recreational trails.

1 . 0 I N T R O D U C T I O N

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RECRE AT ION A L T R A IL S OV E R V IE W

2

2.1 WHY HAVE RECREATIONAL TRAILS?

2.2 TYPES OF TRAILS

2.3 GUIDING PRINCIPLES

2.4 TYPES OF TRAIL USERS

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2.1 W H Y H AV E R E C R E AT I O N A L T R A I L S ?

The demand for recreational trails is growing. National

physical activity trends indicate that participation in

unstructured recreational activities is increasing.

In addition, trail research undertaken by Market Equity

in 2004 found that trails provide a strong incentive to

exercise (up to 85% of users) and were used by many

as a means to spend time with family and friends

(up to 89%).

Both nationally and in South Australia based on 2009

-2010 survey, walking is the most popular sport and

physical activity for people over 15 years of age (15%),

with jogging and cycling third and fifth respectively

with jogging being the only activity to show an increase

since 2005-2006. Bushwalking was ninth on the list of

most popular activities and the most popular types of

facilities used for sport and physical activity were parks,

beaches and walking trails1.

The 2006 data indicates that, in South Australia, there

were over 120,000 cyclists and 476,000 walkers.

Almost 54,000 South Australians specifically reported

that they bush- walked for exercise or recreation in their

leisure time2.

Horse riding is another recreational activity pursued

by many South Australians and is amongst the top

20 activities for women. Participation in canoeing and

kayaking is steadily increasing, both Australia wide

and in SA, while scuba diving continues to attract

many enthusiasts. All these pursuits are becoming a

significant component of South Australia’s suite of

recreational opportunities.

Recreational trails offer a diverse range of benefits to

our communities and the environment. Social health,

physical fitness, environmental management and

awareness, cultural preservation and the economy can

all benefit from the effects and experiences offered by

recreational trails. The main benefits can be summarised

as follows:

SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL HEALTH BENEFITS:

• Participation in trail activities improves physical

and mental health, assists with disease prevention

and management, particularly cardiovascular,

musculoskeletal, respiratory, nervous and endocrine

systems as well as reducing obesity, hypertension,

depression and anxiety.

• Trail activities facilitate participation and interaction

between a diverse range of community members,

age groups, individuals and families and facilitate

social interaction, e.g. community groups, voluntary

trail maintenance and conservation work.

• Trails can offer a wide range of opportunities to a

wide range of people. Depending upon design, trails

can accommodate the elderly, people with mobility

impairments or satisfy those seeking challenging

adventures and a sense of achievement.

• Participation in trail activities is relatively low cost.

• Trails can introduce participants to other recreational

and participation offerings in the community.

• Trails help to connect people and places and develop

and grow community pride.

ENVIRONMENTAL AND CULTURAL BENEFITS:

• Trails provide opportunities for the community to

experience natural and cultural environments.

• Trails help to protect the environment by localising

impacts and managing visitation effects.

• Trails provide for educational and interpretive

opportunities and increase environmental and

cultural awareness and appreciation.

• Well-connected trail networks can decrease the

use of motorised vehicles for transportation and

recreation, therefore reducing the production of

emissions that contribute to global warming and

respiratory problems.

• Trail networks increase community ownership and

assist to preserve natural and cultural values.

• Trails highlight our ‘living heritage’ by allowing

the continuation of traditional activities such as

horse riding.

• Trails provide opportunities for community

participation in conservation and revegetation work.

1 ABS Australian Social Trends, Jun 2011 http://www.abs.gov.au

2 Statistics from ERASS Survey 2001-2006

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ECONOMIC BENEFITS:

• Trails may generate intrastate, interstate and

overseas tourism spending.

• Trails support and enhance local business

opportunities.

• Trail visitors spend money in towns and communities

along or near trails.

• Trail users spend money preparing for their trail

experience or recreation activities.

• Trail construction and maintenance can generate

employment opportunities.

• Participation in trail activities improves community

health and reduces health expenditure.

2.2 T Y P E S O F T R A I L SSouth Australia features a variety of landscapes,

population densities and climatic conditions. Patterns

of settlement range from sparsely populated areas

to peri-urban and suburban environments. Climatic

conditions also vary significantly in both a geographic

and seasonal sense. Similarly, trail opportunities and

experiences vary widely and include a higher frequency

of use within and around the populated areas of

metropolitan Adelaide to more isolated and intimate

experiences in the outback and regional areas.

The South Australian Recreational Trails 10 Year Master

Plan establishes two broad categories of trails:

SOCIAL TRAIL NETWORKS

These trail systems may be accessed in any number of

ways from a variety of locations with little or no signs or

direction given on the ground. They are trail networks

which are used by a variety of recreational users, which

are not necessarily approved or sanctioned by the land

owner or manager. Whatever their status in terms of

access (sanctioned or otherwise) they are important

recreational resources, often of significant value. They

are often based around traditional access routes, desire

lines or even natural corridors such as river banks,

ridges, or linear features such as fences and walls.

PRESCRIBED ROUTE SYSTEMS

Prescribed route systems differ from social trail

networks in that they are based on marked or signed

trail routes that are clearly defined. In addition

prescribed route systems have clearly defined trailheads

where trails start or finish or both.

What sets them apart from social trail networks is

that they are trail marked or signed and promoted in

some way indicating status and responsibility to the

trail provider.

Existing and proposed trails must be designed and

maintained in accordance with their landscape setting

and to sustain the physical demands of use and

climatic conditions.

All trails will be:

S U S TA I N A B L E : contributing to positive social,

environmental and economic outcomes

Q UA L I T Y: being accessible and meeting the needs of

the user

South Australian trails are further classified into three

categories for trails based on their significance as

local, regional or national trails. The trail categories

are determined by characteristics that focus on the

trail’s ability to demonstrate sustainability, experiential

quality, attraction to tourists, generation of economic

benefits and contribution to the lifestyle, health and

social wellbeing of South Australians. A series of key

indicators has also been developed to guide decision

makers when determining the category of a trail. The

trail category characteristics are briefly described below

while the key indicators are detailed in Appendix B.

LOCAL

TRAILS

REGIONAL

TRAILS

NATIONAL

TRAILS

Mainly attract local users

Attract interstate and intrastate visitors

Attract international and interstate tourists

Generate economic benefits to the local area

Generate significant economic benefits to the region

Generate significant economic benefits to SA

Good quality experiential values

Excellent quality experiential values

Outstanding quality of experiential values

Make a significant contribution to the lifestyle, health and social well being of the local community

Make a significant contribution to the lifestyle, health and social well being of South Australians

Make a significant contribution to the lifestyle, health and social well being of Australians

Trails that do not have the characteristics of local,

regional or national trails may well be important

to some users but will most likely be classed as

‘unsustainable trails’. Such trails will require review

and analysis by trail managers to determine if trail

improvement or closure is appropriate.


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2.3 G U I D I N G P R I N C I P L E SPrior to the consideration of a new trails initiative –

either improving an existing trail or constructing a new

one – it is important to ensure that the proposal is both

• sustainable and

• quality

The new initiative should be accessible and clearly meet

the needs of the intended users.

Adherence to these two ‘guiding principles’ will assist

in attracting support from the user group, minimise

the likelihood of environmental damage and maximise

opportunities for land owner support and funding.

These ‘guiding principles’ are discussed further below.

SUSTAINABLE TRAILS

It is fundamentally important that recreational trails are

socially, economically and environmentally sustainable.

Given the limited amount of natural and semi-natural

landscapes remaining in South Australia, recreational

activities that diminish natural values (biodiversity and

landscape amenity) are inappropriate and will not be

acceptable to the community or other stakeholders.

It is vital, therefore, that high quality recreational

experiences are developed in landscapes that are

capable of supporting the activities.

The conservation and enhancement of natural areas,

protection of biodiversity and raising environmental

awareness should underpin the development of an

environmentally sustainable trail network. This can be

achieved through appropriate trail design, location

selection and ongoing management.

Trails must also be economically and socially

sustainable. There is a growing body of evidence which

identifies the economic benefits that well developed

trails can bring to a local community and/or a region

through increased visitation, including tourism3.

However, the development of recreational trails must

also take into account the sensitivities and desires of

local communities.

While well designed and managed recreational trails

can enhance the well-being of local communities by

improving access and increasing physical activity,

recreational trails should not be developed at the

expense and safety of local residents and adjoining

property owners.

In order to achieve a network of sustainable trails,

it may be necessary to review the location, design,

management and use of existing trails prior to the

consideration of new trail projects. The development

of new trails may then be contemplated following

the closure or rehabilitation of existing trails that are

inappropriately located or designed.

ACCESSIBLE TRAILS

Intertwined with the objective of sustainability is

the need for trails to be accessible and to meet

the needs of intended users. One of the main roles

of trails is to link communities to a variety of high

quality experiences and interesting natural and rural

landscapes. In addition, trails can improve mobility and

connectivity within and between urban areas. Trails

which are readily accessible and provide links between

communities and landscapes can enhance lifestyles

through the promotion of physical activity, reducing the

reliance on motorised vehicles and improving health

and fitness.

Accessibility is determined by:

• proximity to the metropolitan area, population

centres or tourist attractions

• proximity to related facilities such as horse agistment

areas or other popular riding areas

• proximity to transportation facilities such as railway

lines or road network providing access to the site

• existing or proposed linkages to other trails and the

wider trails network.

• proximity to natural attractions such as scenic views,

native vegetation, waterfalls, lakes, coastline, etc.

• presence of existing facilities that may support or

facilitate use of the trail such as car parks, toilets,

picnic facilities, camping sites, tourist information

centres, cafes, tour operators, etc.

• the nature of the terrain and landform

• access for emergency vehicles.

Proposals for new trails, or upgrades to existing

trails, should clearly demonstrate that they meet at

least half of the accessibility determinants expressed

above. This will assist in the promotion of the trail to

prospective user groups and ensure that any associated

economic and social benefits are shared amongst

nearby communities.

3 See, for example, Trails Research Project prepared by Market Equity Pty Ltd,

June 2004


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2.4 T Y P E S O F T R A I L U S E R SFollowing consideration of the type of trail proposed

(local, regional or national) together with an assessment

against the ‘guiding principles’ of sustainability and

accessibility, it is necessary to think about the type of

recreational users who will be attracted to the trail.

The types of users will strongly influence the design

of the trail in terms of width, materials, slope, degree

of difficulty and linkages to other attractions, public

transport and services.

Trails can be designed to accommodate a broad range

of user groups with varying interests and needs or,

alternatively, for a small sector only. Proponents of trails

should carefully consider the range of users envisaged

and then design the trail accordingly.

Potential users may include:

WA L K E R S : A ‘walker’ broadly describes anyone who

travels by foot on recreational trails. Walking includes

all forms of recreational walking and a variety of trail

experiences from a leisurely stroll in the local park to

strenuous treks across rugged terrain. Walking may

also involve exercising dogs, nature appreciation or

overnight stays. Walkers use both urban and rural trails.

Urban walkers use trails within suburban reserves, linear

parks and along transport corridors. The majority of

these types of walkers use trails for fitness and social

reasons. Walkers in rural areas often seek a Walkers

use both urban and rural trails. Urban walkers use

trails within suburban reserves, linear parks and along

transport corridors. The majority of these types of

walkers use trails for fitness and social reasons. Walkers

in rural areas often seek a variety of trail experiences

including more challenging trails that visit interesting

natural features. They may be self-sufficient and carry

adequate clothing, food and water for sustained and

demanding walks. As fitness and expertise increase,

these walkers often seek experiences in more remote

and difficult terrain.

R U N N E R S : Runners like to use a variety of trails ranging

from urban, hard paved trails to more challenging

experiences in rural areas. Orienteering events may also

traverse trails and trail running events are becoming

increasingly popular.

C Y C L I S T S : Cycle tourers seek experiences on roads and

off transport corridors on purpose built trails such as

rail trails with bitumen surface or formed paths.

M O U N TA I N B I K E R I D E R S : There are a range of sub-

groups which sit under the broad heading of mountain

bike riders:

• Family, Occasional or Beginner mountain bike riders:

These riders generally like short loops of fairly level

terrain, with some challenges to introduce them to

off-road cycling

• Cross-country riders: Cyclists of this nature seek

moderate to very challenging terrain and like

to get away from busy trails to areas of more

solitude. They are usually self-sufficient; carrying

tools, water, food and spare tubes even maps and

first aid kits. They like trails that include a variety

of interconnecting loops that provide a 10 to

100 kilometre ride

• Downhillers: Downhillers seek steep challenging

terrain and obstacles that appear unusable to

outsiders. Most ride full suspension bikes, which

are not designed to efficiently ride uphill, so shuttle

access to the top of the hill is preferred

• Technical/Trials riders: these riders prefer trails

that provide numerous obstacles to challenge their

riding skills. Such obstacles may include fallen trees,

drop offs, sea saws, stairs, rocks and very difficult

obstacles. These can be incorporated into cross-

country trails or in special-use areas

Photo 4: Bushwalking (Photo by Michael Mullan)

Photo 5: Mountain Bike Riding (Photo by

Michael Mullan)


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H O R S E R I D E R S : Horse riders can be divided into a number

of sub-groups:

• Recreational or ‘weekender’ riders: These users

will be looking to exercise their horses and ride in

attractive rural settings for a few hours to a day-

long ride. Traditionally their trails exist on roadsides

and unmade roads. Trails with a durable tread that

contain watering points are suitable for these riders

• Endurance: These competitive riders like very large

circuits to train on but events are usually held on

temporary loops.

• Long distance riders: These are non-competitive

riders who often travel long distances along linear

trails or on daily loops of up to 30 kilometres from a

base. Their trail experience can range from overnight

to rides that last a number of weeks.

C A N O E I S T S , K AYA K E R S , S N O R K E L E R S , S C U BA D I V E R S : A

variety of freshwater and salt water based trails

provides these users with experiences which can be

stand-alone water based or they can be complemented

by land based trails as a walker or rider.

The path of the water, its inherent features and the

surrounding environment guide these types of trail

users. In some locations, land managers may provide

direction, interpretive and safety information signs.

Access points, including boat ramps, secure car

parking, campsites accessible by water only, require due

consideration when formalising water based trails.


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S TR ATEGIC AND L EGISL AT IVE OVERVIE W

3

3.1 INTRODUCTION

3.2 STATE LEVEL

3.3 REGIONAL LEVEL

3.4 LOCAL LEVEL

3.5 FEDERAL LEVEL

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3.1 I N T R O D U C T I O NRecreational trails cannot be created in isolation. The

State and Local Governments provide a comprehensive

framework which guides the distribution of resources. In

addition, State and Local Governments are responsible

for the implementation of a wide range of legislation

and by-laws which impact on new and existing trails.

These laws have a significant influence on the location,

construction and ownership as well as the ongoing

management and maintenance of trails.

It is important, therefore, that careful consideration

is given to all relevant Government legislation and

strategies when planning for a new trail or reviewing

an existing trail. While this may seem an onerous

task, it is an essential one. A thorough understanding

of the legislative and strategic context within which

a trail proposal sits will help to avoid future pitfalls

and improve the channels of communication with

Government officials. Importantly, a well-researched

trail proposal is likely to be taken more seriously and, if

supported by relevant strategies, will be more likely to

attract funding and other forms of support.

This chapter provides a concise summary of the main

legislative and strategic documents which are relevant

to recreational trails. These documents should be

reviewed as a minimum when planning a new trail or

further developing an existing trail. The flowchart below

illustrates the hierarchy and interaction between the

levels of Government, their various strategic plans and

the legislation which may relate to trail proposals.

STATE LEVEL: SOUTH AUSTRALIA’S STRATEGIC PLAN

REGIONAL

LOCAL LEVEL

STRATEGIC PLANS

South Australia’s Strategic Plan 2011

Planning Strategy 2011

SA Tourism Plan 2020

The Eat Well Be Active Strategy for South Australia

2011–2016

Cycling Strategy for South Australia 2006 - 2010

SA Recreational Trails 10 Year Master Plan

Strategic Infrastructure Plan for SA

STRATEGIC PLANS

Regional Recreation, Sport & Open Space Plans

NRM Plans

STRATEGIC PLANS

Local Govt Strategic Management Plans

Trail Strategies

Park Management Plans

Recreation and Open Space Plans

Development Plans

Park and Regional Trail Plans

LEGISLATION

Development Act 1993

Roads (Opening and Closing) Act 1991

National Parks & Wildlife Act 1972

Native Vegetation Act 1991

Forestry Act 1950

Aboriginal Heritage Act 1988

Marine Parks legislation

LEGISLATION

Natural Resources Management Act 2004

LEGISLATION

Local Government Act 1999

Figure 1: Strategic and Legislative Flowchart

3 . 0 S T R A T E G I C A N D L E G I S L A T I V E O V E R V I E W

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3.2 S TAT E L E V E LThe State Government, through its various

departments, plays a significant role in both the

provision and support of recreational trails. This is

most evident on public land such as national parks and

forestry reserves or regional trails such as the Mawson

and Heysen Trails where the State provides and

maintains the trails in a partnership with the community.

The State Government also plays a major role by

funding significant trail proposals, providing strategic

direction through policies and plans and through the

promotion of the existing trail network.

3.2.1 STRATEGIC PLANS

SOUTH AUSTRALIA’S STRATEGIC PLAN

The plan has been updated twice update since it was

released in 2004. Based on the feedback received from

South Australians during the widespread consultation

process, 21 new targets have been included in this

updated Plan. The majority of the 2007 targets have

been retained, to ensure progress is measured.

The Strategic Plan presents the State Government’s

aims to improve the wellbeing of South Australians

through increased prosperity and economic growth,

together with better access to important services such

as health and education. The Strategic Plan also aims

to preserve and improve the environment, promote

innovation and creativity and extend opportunity to all

South Australians.

http://saplan.org.au/pages/download-the-plan

Trails contribute to the State Strategic Plan goals

and targets:

VISION: WE ARE ACTIVE IN LOOKING AFTER

OUR HEALTH

• G OA L : We are physically active.

– Target 83: Sport and recreation Increase the

proportion of South Australians participating

in sport or physical recreation at least once

per week to 50% by 2020 (baseline: 2011-12)

VISION: OUR COMMUNITIES ARE VIBRANT PLACES

TO LIVE, WORK, PLAY AND VISIT

• G OA L : We are committed to our towns and cities

being well designed, generating great experiences

and a sense of belonging.

– Target 1: Urban spaces Increase the use

of public spaces by the community

(baseline: 2011)

• G OA L : New developments are people friendly,

with open spaces and parks connected by public

transport and bikeways.

– Target 2: Cycling Double the number of

people cycling in South Australia by 2020

(baseline: 2011)

THE PLANNING STRATEGY

The Planning Strategy is an expression of policy

which sets out the State Government’s vision for

development in South Australia and the regions within

it. The Planning Strategy covers the full range of

social, economic and environmental issues. When local

councils prepare and review their Development Plans

they are required to maintain consistency with the

visions contained within the Planning Strategy.

The Planning Strategy is comprised of three volumes:

the Metropolitan Adelaide volume, the Outer

Metropolitan Adelaide volume and the Regional South

Australia volume.

A new planning system Renewing Our Urban Future

Unlocking South Australia’s Potential is being

established that seeks to:

• provide certainty to applicants and communities

through streamlined, digitally enabled processes

• promote high quality design for the built

environment and public realm

• require a coordinated approach to planning and

delivering infrastructure

• require that decision makers possess relevant

professional qualifications or experience

• promote a culture of collaboration and community

engagement in the planning and development of

our State

Open space is a key component of a liveable city

and the system seeks to ensure green space is

protected and better utilized and concerns about the

sustainability of vehicle-based transport means that

cycling and walking must start to play a greater role

in how we get around. Cycling and walking networks

will be extended and better connections with public

transport established to give commuters more options.

http://dpti.sa.gov.au/planning/planning_reform

http://www.dpti.sa.gov.au/planning

Planning strategies support the Metropolitan Open

Space System (MOSS) to create a second generation


15



of parklands throughout Adelaide which will ultimately

be a clearly defined, linked system of public and private

open space in and around the whole metropolitan area.

Importantly, initiatives to improve land within the MOSS

are considered more likely to receive funding from the

State Government’s Planning and Development Fund.

https://www.sa.gov.au/topics/housing-property-and-

land/local-government/grants-for-open-space-and-

urban-design

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN TOURISM PLAN 2020

The South Australian Tourism Plan 2020 fits within the

Australia-wide approach of Tourism 2020. This Plan

is focused on achieving the South Australian tourism

industry’s full potential of $8.0b of visitor expenditure

by 2020, which would generate nearly 10,000

additional direct jobs in the South Australian economy.

The South Australian Tourism Plan 2020 identifies that

for the State to reach its expenditure potential the

focus must be on five priority action areas:

• Driving demand.

• Working better together.

• Supporting what we have.

• Increasing the recognition of the value

of tourism.

• Using events to grow visitation.

Recognising the need to provide a supportive

environment for the tourism industry’s growth, an

additional two areas have been identified as areas

to influence:

• The total cost of doing business.

• Investment in public infrastructure.

www.tourism.sa.gov.au.

While many of the ideas contained in the Tourism Plan

are of relevance for trail proposals, it is suggested

that the priority action areas provide a supportive

environment for significant national and international

trail initiatives. Trail planners should access Tourism SA

consumer insights and data when developing major trail

investment projects.

THE EAT WELL BE ACTIVE STRATEGY FOR SOUTH

AUSTRALIA 2011–2016

The South Australian Eat Well Be Active Strategy 2011–

2016 is a 5-year blueprint for action to promote healthy

eating and physical activity for all South Australians.

The strategy aims to build momentum for change in

which large numbers of the population are supported

to lead healthy and active lives.

The strategy looks for opportunities to build on existing

systems and processes that are already proving

successful, and considers expanding the range of

policies, programs and services to help make healthy

eating and physical activity easier.

Of interest to trail proposals is the emphasis on

establishing partnerships across Government

departments and between community organisations as

well as encouraging the development of environments

that support increased levels of physical activity

amongst the community.

A C T I O N A R E A 2 – worked toward ensuring that the places

where we live, learn, work, eat, play and shop make it

easy for us to be active and eat a healthy diet, including

breastfeeding, by:

• investing in community-based recreation facilities

through local councils and state government.

A C T I O N A R E A 3 – implemented policies through state

government departments and beyond to increase the

availability of healthy food; decrease the availability,

promotion, sale and consumption of unhealthy food;

and enhance opportunities for physical activity

participation by:

• forming a broad partnership of groups successfully

building physical activity and healthy food issues into

urban planning from the strategic to the operational

perspective

• continuing to improve Adelaide’s Bikedirect

bicycle network, which has increased from 480

kilometres of bicycle paths and lanes in 2002 to

around 908 kilometres by December 2010, an

increase of 89%

http://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au


16



SAFETY IN NUMBERS – A CYCLING STRATEGY FOR

SOUTH AUSTRALIA 2006-2010

In 2006, the State Government released Safety in

Numbers – A Cycling Strategy for South Australia

2006-2010. The goal of the strategy is to achieve “More

people cycling safely more often in South Australia,

with an aim to double cycling trips by 2015”.

To achieve this, Safety in Numbers promotes the

objectives of:

• Effective planning and coordination for cycling

• Comprehensive cycling networks and facilities

• Safer cycling

• Successful promotion of cycling

• Government leading by example.

http://www.dpti.sa.gov.au/ data/assets/pdf_

file/0015/24360/cycling_strategy.pdf

The strategy includes specific actions to further develop

the cycling network, particularly within urban settings,

by extending and improving cycling routes, providing

links to public transport interchanges and establishing

bicycle lanes along arterial roads. The Cycling Strategy

is supported by the State Bicycle Fund which assists

local Councils to develop and upgrade their cycling

facilities in accordance with Austroads, Guide to Traffic

Engineering Part 14 – Bicycles. The State Bicycle Fund is

administered by the Department of Planning Transport

and Infrastructure.

http://www.dpti.sa.gov.au/cycling

THE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT WATER AND

NATURAL RESOURCES (DEWNR)

DEWNR have developed a number of strategies for

the management and promotion of sustainable trail

experiences which include public land and for the long

distance Heysen Trail.

http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/parks/Visiting

ESTABLISHING THE ADELAIDE MOUNT LOFTY RANGES

REGION AS AN INTERNATIONAL MOUNTAIN BIKE

DESTINATION 2015 (DEWNR)

The Adelaide Mount Lofty Region (AMLR) is an

emerging mountain biking destination with some high

profile trail networks and many high quality but less

known formal mountain bike trails.

The South Australian Government has recognised

the importance of the AMLR, and its future potential

to contribute to the development of Adelaide and

the region as a thriving nationally and internationally

competitive place to live, invest and visit. The

Government has committed resources to build the

AMLR as an international level mountain biking

destination that they would like to see become an

important driver of tourism and economic sustainability

in the region.

The AMLR Mountain Biking Destination Implementation

Plan (the Plan) provides the framework for building the

destination over time through an integrated approach

and collaboration between government agencies,

local councils, the tourism industry, mountain biking

organisations and the community.

http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/parks/Visiting/

cycling-mountain-biking

SA RECREATIONAL TRAILS 10 YEAR MASTER PLAN

The Master Plan was developed by Recreation SA to

provide a sustainable framework for the physical trails

network and to serve as the bridge between the trail

system and the actual visitor experience.

The Master Plan provides the tools and the framework

guiding the direction of trail development from policy

level through to building community level trails. It seeks

to outline a staged approach over the next 10 years

which should encourage the securing of funds and

developing future trail user markets.

http://recreationsa.org/outdoor-overview/

3.2.2 LEGISLATION

DEVELOPMENT ACT 1993

The Development Act 1993 has been established

to provide for orderly and efficient planning and

development in the State by:

• establishing objectives and principles of

planning and development

• establishing a system of strategic planning to

guide development

• providing for the creation of Development Plans

• providing for appropriate public participation in

planning and the development assessment process.

The Development Act 1993 has no direct policy role or

position: its role is to establish a framework for making

policy and provide for its implementation through the

assessment of Development Applications. However, trail

proposals should consider the documents established

by the Development Act including the Planning

Strategy and local Development Plans. Trails should be


17



consistent with the strategic direction provided by the

Planning Strategy and may require formal Development

Approval in accordance with local Development Plans.

Further information should be sought from the Planning

Section of the Council within which the trail proposal

is located.

ROADS (OPENING & CLOSING) ACT 1991

The Act enables roads to be opened or closed by a

Road Process Order made by the relevant authority

(usually Local Government), confirmed by the relevant

State Government Minister and notified in the SA

Government Gazette in accordance with this Act. The

application of this Act is fundamental to the utilisation

of road reserves (made and unmade roads) for trails.

In addition, unmade roads may be subject to a lease

or permit arrangement between the local Council and

adjoining property owner. Trail proposals which seek to

use unmade roads should identify whether or not any

leases or permits are in place and whether these alter

the right of access by the public.

NATIONAL PARKS AND WILDLIFE ACT 1972

This Act provides for the establishment and

management of reserves for the benefit and enjoyment

of the public, to provide for the conservation of wildlife in

a natural environment and for other purposes including

recreational activities. The Act requires the preparation

of Management Plans which set out guidelines for the

management and use of National Parks.

New trail proposals that are located within National

Parks must be in accordance with the Park’s

Management Plan. The Management Plan may

also identify the type and frequency of usage of

recreational trails.

NATIVE VEGETATION ACT 1991

The Act controls the clearance of native vegetation

in South Australia. Under the Act, the clearance

of native vegetation requires the consent of the

Native Vegetation Council, unless it is covered by an

exemption contained within the Native Vegetation

Regulations 2003.

Native vegetation as defined by the Act includes any

naturally occurring local native plants. This covers the

full range of native species, from tall trees to small

ground covers, native grasses, wetland plants such as

reeds and rushes, as well as marine plants. The plants

may comprise natural bushland or they may be isolated

plants in a modified setting, such as single trees in

pastured paddocks.

Vegetation “clearance” includes any activity that could

cause substantial damage to native plants. This includes

not just cutting down and removing plants, but also

burning, poisoning, slashing of understorey, removal of

branches (for example, brush cutting or woodcutting),

drainage and reclamation of wetlands, and in some

circumstances grazing by animals. Regulations under

the Act include a number of circumstances in which

native vegetation may be cleared provided all criteria

under that particular exemption are complied with.

A clearance application must be made to the Native

Vegetation Council for the clearance of any native

vegetation that is not exempt under the Native

Vegetation Act.

This Act has significant implications for trail

development as any proposals which seek the removal

of native vegetation will require approval unless they fall

within a limited range of exemptions.

FORESTRY ACT 1950

This Act provides for the creation and management

of State forests and other related matters. This Act

empowers ForestrySA to regulate the way in which

State forests are utilised including access and provision

of recreation opportunities.

ABORIGINAL HERITAGE ACT 1988

This Act provides protection for all Aboriginal

objects, remains, sites of spiritual, archaeological,

anthropological and historical significance whether they

are registered or not. The main features of the Act are:

• protection of all sites with Aboriginal tradition,

archaeology, anthropology or history

• provision for traditional custodians to determine

whether land or objects are of significance to the

Aboriginal people

• provision for the developer and the public to seek

a determination through the Minister for Aboriginal

Affairs and Reconciliation as to whether an area or an

object is of significance.

The Minister responsible for the Aboriginal Heritage

Act may allow the disturbance of sites following

consultation with the traditional custodians, relevant

Aboriginal organisations or any other interested

Aboriginal person.

Proposals for recreational trails need to consider

Aboriginal Heritage matters particularly in coastal areas

or along relatively undisturbed creeklines where signs

of Aboriginal occupation may be present.


18



NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT 2004

An Act to promote sustainable and integrated

management of the State’s natural resources through

managing, protecting and, in some cases, restoring the

region’s precious natural resources, aiming to balance

the needs of people with those of nature.

3.3 R E G I O N A L L E V E L3.3.1 STRATEGIC PLANS

REGIONAL RECREATION, SPORT AND OPEN SPACE

STRATEGIES

Regional recreation, sport and open space planning has

been promoted by the Office for Recreation and Sport.

Strategies establish partnerships with local Councils

within the various planning regions to coordinate and

prioritise the funding of regional recreation, sport and

open space facilities.

Given the linear nature of recreational trails, they often

cross Council boundaries and attract users from a wide

catchment. Because of these characteristics, trails

may be identified as regional facilities by Regional

Recreation, Sport and Open Space Strategies and may

be more likely to attract funding from a wider range

of sources.

More information on these strategies can be obtained

from the Office for Recreation and Sport and

local Councils.

http://www.ors.sa.gov.au

NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT PLANS

Natural Resources Management Plans have been

developed for the eight Natural Resources Management

(NRM) regions across the State. These Plans contain

strategies to better manage and improve environmental

conditions in the various NRM regions.

Importantly, recreational trail proposals which

contribute to the environmental rehabilitation of an area

are likely to be encouraged by these plans and may be

eligible for financial support.

http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/about-us/our-plans

REGIONAL TRAIL PLANS

Some local councils have developed regional trail plans.

These can be sourced through local councils.

3.3.2 LEGISLATION

NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ACT 2004

The Natural Resources Management Act, 2004 provides

an integrated structure for managing South Australia’s

natural assets including soils, water, plants and animals

as well as the diversity of landscapes and ecosystems.

The Act integrates a number of previously separate

administrative arrangements into one system,

establishes the Natural Resources Management Council

as the statewide peak body for natural resources

management and creates a number of Regional Natural

Resources Management Boards.

The Act also requires the preparation of both State

and Regional Natural Resources Management Plans

(see 3.3.1).

The Natural Resources Management Act also prescribes

that certain water affecting activities require a permit.

This has implications for recreational trails which

include water crossings or earthworks which may affect

a watercourse.

The Natural Resources Management Act also requires

that land owners must take action to destroy prescribed

pest plants including olives, blackberries and gorse.

With this in mind, weed control should be factored into

the ongoing maintenance and management of trails.

3.4 L O C A L L E V E L3.4.1 STRATEGIC PLANS

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLANS

All Councils are required by the Local Government Act

1999 to prepare Strategic Management Plans for their

areas. These documents, which usually have a three

to five year planning horizon, establish a framework

which guides the allocation of Council resources.

Given that the provision of recreation facilities is a core

responsibility of local Government, most Strategic

Management Plans provide detailed objectives and

strategies for the improvement of facilities.

PARK AND PUBLIC LAND TRAIL PLANS

The Department of Environment Water and Natural

Resources have developed a number of trail plans

for parks that have significant trail experiences and

opportunities or where there is opportunity to improve

the sustainability of trail networks. The trail plans are

guided by the park management plans and direct future

investment in trails.

When considering trail opportunities in or adjacent to

parks or on public it is good practice at the earliest

opportunity to discuss future trail proposals with the

land manager and consider any trail plans that may

be available.


19



For examples, see www.dcmtbarker.sa.gov.au and

www.onkaparinga.sa.gov.au

TRAIL STRATEGIES

A number of local Councils have prepared trail

strategies for their areas4. These strategies set out

where, when and how trails will be developed and

maintained and identify the standards which will govern

their design and location. Local trail strategies will

often address ongoing maintenance responsibilities

as well as prioritising limited Council resources for the

establishment and maintenance of existing or new trails.

RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE STRATEGY PLANS

While not a legislative requirement, many local Councils

have prepared Recreation or Open Space Strategy

Plans. These plans provide detailed recommendations

for the management and improvement of Council’s

recreational and open space assets. In many cases,

these strategy plans will propose new trails or identify

existing trails which are scheduled to be upgraded.

Together with any local trails strategy, the Recreation

or Open Space Strategy Plans are usually the first

documents that the Council will use to determine

whether or not they will support a new trail proposal.

They are also the key documents which the State

Government uses to allocate funding. Trails that are not

identified in local Recreation and Open Space Strategy

Plans are much less likely to receive funding than those

that are.

3.4.2 LEGISLATION

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1999

In South Australia, local Councils are established by the

Local Government Act 1999. This gives Councils broad

powers to make decisions and deliver services.

Although each Council is different, all Councils should

fulfil the following roles and functions:

• prepare strategic management plans and make

decisions about priorities for services and facilities

in the area

• provide services for the well-being of people who live

and work in the local community

• represent the interests of local communities to

the wider community, including to State and

Commonwealth Governments

• provide open, responsive and accountable

Government, and ensure that available resources are

used fairly, efficiently and effectively.

Of particular interest for trail proposals is Section 196

of the Local Government Act which requires that all

Councils prepare management plans for community

owned land. These management plans must state the

purpose for which the land is to be held by Council, as

well as the Council’s objectives, policies and proposals

for the management of the land.

Also of interest for trail proposals is the requirement

under the Local Government Act for Councils to

manage made and unmade road reserves. This involves

maintenance, addressing public liability issues and the

leasing of unmade road reserves.

DEVELOPMENT PLANS

The Development Plan is a statutory or legally binding

planning document which sets out the guidelines

against which Development Applications are assessed

in each Council area.

The Development Plan has two purposes. Firstly, it

sets out objectives to guide the type and location of

future development across the Council area. Secondly,

it provides the detail for the assessment of individual

development applications. The Development Plan does

this by establishing a network of zones and policy areas

over the Council area which describe the desired future

character for that particular area. The Development

Plan then sets out more detailed criteria against which

development applications will be assessed in each zone

and/or policy area.

Importantly, the Development Plan only comes into

effect once an application has been lodged. Because of

this, it cannot control existing development or influence

the way existing land uses are managed. These

operational issues need to be co-ordinated through

the Council’s Strategic Management Plan in association

with the State Government and the private sector.

4 For examples, see www.dcmtbarker.sa.gov.au and

www.onkaparinga.sa.gov.au


20



3.5 F E D E R A L L E V E LWhile the Federal Government does not have any

direct responsibilities associated with recreational

trails, it does play an important role as a source

of funding for other levels of Government and

community associations. Regional Development

Australia Boards in South Australia are a unique

tripartite partnership between the Australian and South

Australian Governments, and the Local Government

Association of South Australia on behalf of its

members. They are administered by the Australian

Government Department of Infrastructure and Regional

Development, the South Australian Department of

Primary Industries and Regions SA, and the Local

Government Association of South Australia.

In South Australia there are eight RDA Boards covering

all areas of the state including metropolitan Adelaide.

South Australia’s unique funding model includes

substantial financial contributions by all three levels of

government as well as in-kind support and cooperation.

https://rda.gov.au/

ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION AND BIODIVERSITY

CONSERVATION ACT 1999

The Federal Government also has some legislative

responsibilities which may influence trail proposals.

Under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity

Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), the approval of

the Federal Environment Minister is required if an

action (i.e. a trail proposal) will have, or is likely to

have, a significant impact on a matter of national

environmental significance.

An action that is “likely” to have a significant impact

must be referred to the Federal Minister for the

Environment. If the Minister decides that the action

is likely to have a significant impact on a matter of

national environmental significance, then the action

requires approval under the EPBC Act. If the Minister

decides that the action is not likely to have a significant

impact on a matter of national environmental

significance, then the action does not require approval

under the Act.

A preliminary indication of whether an approval under

this Act is required can be found on the Federal

Department of Environment website.

https://www.environment.gov.au/epbc


21



R OL E S A ND RE SP ONS IB IL I T IE S

4

4.1 INTRODUCTION

4.2 STATE LEVEL

4.3 REGIONAL LEVEL

4.4 LOCAL LEVEL

4.5 PEAK USER GROUPS

22



4.1 I N T R O D U C T I O NThere are a number of organisations that are involved in

the business of recreational trail planning, development

and management. These include State Government

Departments, local Councils, peak recreational

user groups and individual community groups and

associations. This chapter provides a summary of the

main organisations and their roles in trail development

and management. The flowchart below illustrates the

interaction between the various organisations involved

in planning for trail proposals.

PEAK USER GROUPS

Bicycle SA

Horse SA

Walking SA

Canoe SA

Scuba Divers Federation of SA

STATE

Department of Environment Water and

Natural Resources (DEWNR)

Office for Recreation and Sport (ORS)

SA Tourism Commission (SATC)

Department of Planning Transport and

Infrastructure (DPTI) ForestrySA

Forestry SA

LOCAL

Local Councils

REGIONAL

NRM Regions:

• Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges

• Alinytjara Wilurara

• Eyre Peninsula

• Kangaroo Island

• Northern and Yorke

• South Australian Arid Lands

• South Australian Murray-Darling Basin

• South East

RECREATION SA

Figure 2: Roles and Responsibilities Flowchart

4 . 0 R O L E S A N D R E S P O N S I B I L I T I E S

23



4.2 S TAT E L E V E LThe South Australian Government, through its various

departments, plays an important role in the provision,

planning, promotion and funding of recreational trails.

Some departments, such as DEWNR are public land

managers with responsibilities for planning, developing

and managing trails both on and off reserves, while

others, such as DPTI, provide advice, develop strategies

and distribute funding.

Where a State Government Minister has management

responsibility for a trail, there is provision to provide

indemnity for recreation trails that are sited on or

adjacent to private property.

Importantly, the funding of new recreational trail

proposals can often include contributions from a range

of different departments. For this reason, it is crucial

that the planning and funding of large scale proposals is

effectively coordinated across the various departments.

There are a number of techniques available to ensure

that coordination is achieved: these are discussed

further in Section 5.

DEPARTMENT FOR ENVIRONMENT WATER AND

NATURAL RESOURCES DEWNR

The Department for Environment & Heritage (DEH) is

responsible for the management of a network of over

300 parks and reserves which cover 20% of the State’s

land mass6. The majority of these parks and reserves

are covered by Management Plans which prescribes the

types of uses permitted and outlines a management

framework for the improvement of the area.

Management Plans recognise that recreational uses

are an important and legitimate activity within parks

provided that they are managed in a sustainable

manner to minimise impacts on the parks’ ecological

and cultural integrity. Proposals for new or extended

trails within parks and reserves will need to be

consistent with the aims of the objectives of the

relevant Management Plan.

http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/managing-natural-

resources

Another important aspect of park management is the

assistance provided by a network of Friends Groups.

Currently, there are over 130 of these groups whose

members are involved in a wide variety of activities

including the removal and management of pest plants,

revegetation, restoration and contributing to research

through monitor wildlife and rare plants. In many parks,

volunteers contribute to the design and maintenance

of walking trails and often guide visitors. It is important

that the relevant Friends Group, along with the Park

Ranger, be consulted during any initial discussions

regarding new trail proposals.

In addition to the management of parks and reserves,

DEWNR is also responsible for the management and

promotion of the Heysen in partnership with the

Friends of the Heysen Trail and Other Walking Trails and

the Yurrebilla Trails.

http://heysentrail.asn.au/heysen-trail/

http://www.southaustraliantrails.com/top_trails.

asp?yurrebilla

OFFICE FOR RECREATION AND SPORT

The Office for Recreation and Sport (ORS) has worked

in partnership with other agencies and the community

to foster and develop recreational trail opportunities.

ORS manages a number of funding programs of

importance to the development of recreational trails.

These include the Community Recreation and Sport

Facilities Program and the Sport and Recreation

Development and Inclusion Program. These programs

assist in the development of existing or new facilities

that meet the active recreation and sporting needs of

the community.

http://ors.sa.gov.au/funding

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN TOURISM COMMISSION

The South Australian Tourism Commission (SATC) has

been established to grow the State’s tourism industry.

This is in recognition of the benefits of tourism to the

South Australian economy including the creation of jobs

and the strong prospects for long- term growth. The

tourism industry contributes to the State’s economic

activity, generating jobs and export dollars by attracting

interstate and international tourists.

It also promotes the State’s cultural attributes and

encourages ecologically sustainable development.

Part of SATC’s role is to market the State’s tourism

product intrastate, interstate and internationally to

ensure that South Australia is considered an important

part of any Australian holiday. The SATC encourages

tourism proposals which complement the State’s

competitive strengths of good living, festivals and

events, and accessible nature. It also works to attract

investment, develop strategic tourism assets, and


24



work with tourism businesses to assist the growth of

the industry.

The South Australian Tourism Commission administers

two grant funding programs for events. It also offers

a range of measures to support the events industry

beyond funding. This in turn helps to increase visitation

to the state.

http://www.tourism.sa.gov.au/industry/funding-

assistance.aspx

THE DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING TRANSPORT AND

INFRASTRUCTURE ( DPTI)

DPTI works as part of the community to deliver

effective planning policy, efficient transport, and

valuable social and economic infrastructure.

DPTI administers a number of funding programs

of importance to recreational trails including the

Open Space Grant Funding and the Places for

People Program. DPTI also provides funding to Local

Government for the purchase or development of

regional open space through the Metropolitan Open

Space System (MOSS).

Associations and community groups may choose

to explore partnership arrangements with local

Councils to meet the eligibility criteria for some of the

funding programs.

DPTI administers two focused programs which provide

funds to local Councils which have trail links: the State

Bicycle Fund and the State Black Spot Program –

Cycling Projects which help to implement the strategies

articulated within Safety in Numbers – A Cycling

Strategy for South Australia 2006–2010 (see page 13).

Funds from the State Black Spot Program are

specifically available to Councils as subsidy funding

for cycling safety infrastructure projects. Such projects

could include the construction of on-road bicycle lanes

and off-road shared use paths.

Importantly, DPTI requires that bicycle facilities must be

planned, designed and constructed in accordance with

Austroads, Guide to Traffic Engineering Practice, Part 14

– Bicycles (1999).

DPTI also contributes funding to ‘green’ cycle

paths within an urban setting. These paths, located

along dedicated public transport corridors, offer an

alternative transport option for commuters while also

providing an important facility for recreational cycling.

Examples of ‘green’ cycle paths include the Coast to

Vines Trail (Willunga - Marino Rail Corridor) and along

the Glenelg Tramway Corridor.

http://www.dpti.sa.gov.au/

FORESTRYSA

ForestrySA manages over 34,000 hectares of native

and commercial forests in South Australia. The

agency’s policy is to facilitate and manage recreation

to ensure there is no adverse impact on the sustainable

management of the forest reserves, including

commercial timber production and the conservation of

native forest reserves. Forest reserves are utilised for

picnicking, bushwalking, camping, horse riding, cycling

and a number of other events such as horse endurance

rides, mountain bike competitions and car rallies.

ForestrySA has published recreation policies and

provisions to regulate and manage recreation in

accordance with the Forestry Act, 1950. Proposals for

new trails within forestry reserves should be consistent

with these policies and should only proceed with the

appropriate authorisation from the agency.

Further information about ForestrySA can be found at

www.forestrysa.sa.gov.au

4.3 R E G I O N A L L E V E LNATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT BOARDS

The Natural Resources Management Act establishes a

number of Regional Natural Resources Management

(NRM) Boards. The purpose of these NRM Boards is

to better manage and care for soil, water, landscapes,

marine environments, native vegetation and animals.

The NRM Boards work towards achieving a set of

environmental objectives established within their plans

which will guide the collective efforts of rural and urban

communities, farmers, conservationists and landowners.

Given the close relationship between recreational

trails and the natural environment, NRM Boards are an

important source of funding and advice for the planning

and development of trails.

http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/about-us/boards-

and-committees/natural-resources-management-

boards

REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AUSTRALIA BOARDS

In South Australia there are eight RDA Boards covering

all areas of the state including metropolitan Adelaide.

South Australia’s unique funding model includes


25



substantial financial contributions by all three levels of

government as well as in-kind support and cooperation.

Regional Development Australia Boards have developed

through amalgamations with the previous Regional

Development Boards RDA.

RDA Boards in South Australia have had considerable

success in developing and delivering collaborative

projects which support the economic development of

their regions and the state more broadly.

In South Australia RDA Boards:

• are responsible for detailed regional plans that focus

on the economic development of their region, taking

into account relevant Commonwealth, state, territory

and local government plans

• provide independent advice to all three levels of

Government on critical issues affecting their region

• work closely with community leaders to identify

funding sources and develop project proposals to

support economic growth

• provide assistance to local communities to develop

project proposals to support economic growth, and

• promote awareness of government programmes in

the RDA community.

Some RDA Boards in South Australia also deliver a

range of services and programmes on behalf of other

state and Australian Government departments.

4.4 L O C A L L E V E LLOCAL GOVERNMENT

Currently, Local Government in South Australia is

made up of sixty eight separate Councils covering

the metropolitan area of Adelaide and the more

densely populated country areas. Each Council is a

different size, has a different number of people living

in the area, and has different community facilities and

public spaces.

The more remote areas where fewer people live are not

within Local Government council boundaries. In some

remote areas, certain local services are provided under

arrangements with the Outback Areas Community

Development Trust.

Local Government is a major provider of recreational

trails. Many Councils are actively involved in

the development of recreational trails and have

responsibility for an extensive network of open space,

reserves and road reserves. Most Councils have

Strategic Management Plans and Open

Space Strategy Plans which guide the distribution

of Council resources including the development of

recreation facilities such as trails.

Depending on the size of the Council, proposals that

relate to the development of existing or new trails are

usually dealt with by the Recreation Officer or Town

Planner. However, in some cases, recreational trails may

fall under the responsibility of the Council’s Engineer or

Asset Manager.

It is likely that a range of Council officers will be

involved in the planning, design, construction and

management of the trail. It is important that all relevant

officers are consulted during the initial consideration of

a trail proposal.

http://www.lga.sa.gov.au/page.aspx


26



4.5 P E A K U S E R G R O U P SRecreation SA, Bicycle SA, Horse SA, Walking SA,

Canoe SA and Scuba Divers Federation of SA (amongst

others) are actively involved in the development of new

recreational trail experiences and promoting, enhancing

and maintaining existing trails.

These groups are advocates for trails and often lobby

Government Departments and local Councils for

improved trail facilities on behalf of their members.

They can help develop applications for funding and can

assist with submissions that comment on Government

policies and strategies. Further information about peak

user groups can be found at:

B I C Y C L E S A

www.bikesa.asn.au

H O R S E S A

www.horsesa.asn.au

WA L K I N G S A

www.walkingsa.org.au

C A N O E S A

www.sa.canoe.org.au

S C U BA D I V E R S F E D E R AT I O N O F S A

www.sdfsa.net

R E C R E AT I O N S A

www.recreationsa.org


27



T R A IL P L A NNING

5

5.1 INTRODUCTION

5.2 ESTABLISH A WORKING GROUP AND DEVELOP A PLAN

5.3 REVIEW EXISTING TRAIL PROVISION

5.4 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ENDORSEMENT

5.5 COMMUNITY CONSULTATION

5.6 DECISION

5.7 FEASIBILITY STUDY

5.8 CONCEPT DESIGN

5.9 FUNDING

28



5.1 I N T R O D U C T I O NThis section provides information to assist with the

initial trail planning stage. This could include a new trail,

an extension of an existing trail or the rehabilitation of

an existing trail.

Good planning is of utmost importance and could be

the difference between the projects success and failure.

If undertaken correctly the planning stage will ensure

the trail will be environmentally and economically

sustainable and will be supported by the community

and will provide popular trail experiences. Good

planning will give confidence to supporters and will

establish long term partnerships.

5.2 E S TA B L I S H A WO R K I N G G R O U P A N D D E V E L O P A P L A N

Once the initial idea for a recreational trail has been

developed, a Working Group or Steering Committee

should be formed to help manage and coordinate the

trail planning process.

The Working Group should include land managers,

user groups, stakeholders and, for larger proposals,

community representatives which could include

local government.

Wide representation will result in more effective and

successful trail planning and greater community

ownership of the final project.

One of the first tasks of the Working Group will be

to write a clear plan so that everyone involved in the

proposal has a clear understanding of the objectives

of the project. The project plan should cover the

following areas:

• the background and need for the trail including the

kind of experience that is being sought

• the overall trail purpose, aims and objectives

• the intended user groups

• the scope including initial estimate of cost and

resources required

• the community consultation approach to be taken

• any background studies or reports relating to the

proposed trail or location

• the timing and staging of the development of

the trail

• any potential agency or community support that

may be available

• roles and responsibilities of working group members

• overview of project.

During this early planning stage, it is vitally important

that the Working Group clearly identify the intended

users of the trail and test whether the proposal will

meet their needs. Specifically, consideration should be

given to the ability of the target market to access and

utilise the trail. Will the trail be attractive and interesting

to this market?

Why would they want to use and visit the trail? Could

the trail be too long, challenging or remote for these

users? If people with mobility impairments are part

of the target market, will the trail meet their specific

requirements? If there is some doubt about the ability

of the proposed trail to clearly address these matters, it

would be wise to reconsider the merits of the proposal.

Notes from the meetings of the Working Group should

be recorded and specific tasks allocated to members of

the group.

5.3 R E V I E W E X I S T I N G T R A I L P R OV I S I O N

Prior to the development of a trail project, it is

important to get a comprehensive picture of existing

recreational trails in an area. In most cases, the local

Council will be able to provide information and maps

which identify existing trails. One of the first questions

that Council and State Government officials will ask is

“Is there a demand for this trail”. Without any credible

evidence to suggest that a new trail is needed and will

be used, it is unlikely that it will be supported.

This review process may find that there are a number

of underutilised or run-down trails already in the area

which could be improved at a much lower cost than the

construction of a new trail.

5.4 L O C A L G OV E R N M E N T E N D O R S E M E N T

While a representative of the local Council may have

been involved in preliminary discussions about the

trail project, it is important that formal endorsement

be given. The Council’s endorsement could include a

resolution of support for the project, or take the form of

a broader agreement concerning the development and

maintenance of the trail.

5 . 0 T R A I L P L A N N I N G

29



As part of this process, the local Council will consider a

number of aspects of the proposal including:

• the need for the trail from a social, environmental

and economic perspective

• support given to the trail proposal by local, regional

and state strategic plans

• any issues that neighboring property owners may

have with the proposal and mechanisms to resolve

those issues

• any up-front financial contributions that may be

requested of Council, and the funding involvement of

other Government Departments

• the ongoing cost of the proposal in relation to

maintenance and management.

5.5 C O M M U N I T Y C O N S U LTAT I O NAs with any community project, it is best to involve

the public and interested stakeholders in as many

ways as possible. The investment of time and energy

in community consultation is necessary to develop

community support and ownership of the project.

The community may provide some useful information

about the area or trail project that the working

group wasn’t aware of. Ideally the Working Group

will have developed a clear message regarding the

proposed trail and prepared answers for any possible

questions. This message should then be taken to the

wider community via a number of different forums or

presentations. Chapter 6 provides more information

about community consultation.

5.6 D E C I S I O NA decision on whether or not to proceed further

with the trail proposal including the expenditure of

more time, energy and money on a feasibility study,

should be made at this point. In addition, the option

of abandoning the proposal in favour of upgrading an

existing trail before deciding upon developing a new

trail should also be considered.

5.7 F E A S I B I L I T Y S T U DYA well-researched feasibility study should be prepared

in order to attract funds and other support for the trail

proposal. A feasibility study will refine the concept of

the trail and then test that concept to determine if it

will ‘perform’ both practically and financially. While

a feasibility study should ideally be professionally

prepared by people with skills in recreation planning,

engineering and landscape architecture, they can also

be developed by local community groups. It should be

remembered that assistance can be provided by the

relevant peak user group as well as the local Council or

Government Department.

The elements that should be included in a trail

feasibility study will depend on the size and scale of the

project, but the following topic headings give a guide

as does the checklist contained in Appendix C:

1. I N T R O D U C T I O N A N D BA C K G R O U N D : How did the project

come about? What is the proposed location? What

type of recreational user is the trail designed for?

2. S U P P LY A N D D E M A N D : Is there a demonstrable need

for this trail? Are there other trails in the area which

may be more appropriate or could be upgraded to

meet the demand?

3. P L A N N I N G P R O C E S S : Has the project been identified

as a priority in any recreational plan, open space

strategy plan or any other local/regional/ state

strategic plan? Has the local Council and/or land

manager given their endorsement for the project?

What approvals are necessary? Have they been

granted or are there any obstacles that may

complicate the approval process?

4. C O N N E C T I O N S : How will the project provide linkages

between towns or community facilities, other trails,

as well as areas of natural, cultural, historical, or

recreational significance?

5. PA RT N E R S H I P S : How will the project demonstrate

cooperation or partnerships between trail users,

trail groups, private interests within the area and

public agencies? What type of funding has been

promised? Has ‘in-kind’ labour or other support

been secured?

6. C O M M U N I T Y I N P U T A N D S U P P O RT: Can the project

demonstrate that it has support from the local

community, trail user groups, community leaders,

service organisations, recreation and environmental

groups, schools, businesses and other non-

Government groups? What methods have been

used to gain knowledge of this support?

7. E N V I R O N M E N TA L M AT T E R S : How will the project

protect and improve areas of environmental

significance? How will it contribute to an improved

knowledge of the environment and what


30



interpretive material will the project provide?

8. C U LT U R A L A N D H E R I TA G E C O N S I D E R AT I O N S : How will

the project recognise and reflect any Aboriginal

and other local cultural and heritage factors?

9. T R A I L A C C E S S A N D T R A I L S H A R I N G O P P O RT U N I T I E S :

Does the project accommodate a range of trail

users (e.g. walking, cycling, horse riding, people

with mobility impairments and educational

purposes)? How will the different users share

the trail?

10. O N G R O U N D A S S E S S M E N T: Has a preliminary

assessment been made in relation to the ‘on

ground’ conditions? Have constraints and

opportunities been identified and the proposed

corridor flagged in accordance with sustainable

trail design principles?

11. C O N C E P T D E S I G N : What are the physical

specifications of the trail: length, width, surface

materials, drainage, trail heads, interpretive signage

and trail markers? What are the required standards

of construction?

12. M A N A G E M E N T A N D M A I N T E N A N C E P L A N N I N G : How

will usage and maintenance issues be addressed?

Is there a ‘friends of group’ for the trail or the

potential to establish one? How will public access

and cooperation be ensured in the long term? Who

will undertake and pay for ongoing operation and

maintenance costs?

13. C A P I TA L C O S T: What is the expected capital cost for

the construction of the trail project? How will the

construction of the trail be funded?

14. F U N D I N G : What funding opportunities are available?

Can ‘in-kind’ support be provided from community

organisations? Does the project satisfy the

requirements of the funding organisations?

15. C O N C L U S I O N : Why should the project proceed?

What are the strengths and weaknesses of

the project? What is required for the project

to proceed?

Horse SA has prepared an Action Planner for Shared

Use Trails5. This planner provides an excellent model

and checklist for organisations and community groups

who are considering the development of a shared

use trail.

5.8 C O N C E P T D E S I G N

In order to develop a concept design for the proposed

trail, consultation should occur with the various

potential trail users, the local Council and land manager

to identify any specific design requirements. Visits to

similar trails and discussions with other trail groups will

also assist in the design process.

The design should give special consideration to road

crossings to ensure the safety of users. In addition, the

width of the trail, type of surface and the dimensions of

directional signs should satisfy any relevant Australian

Standard. This will be particularly important if it is

anticipated that funding for the trail will be provided by

Government Agencies.

Other design considerations should include water

crossings, wet areas, trail heads, parking areas,

shelters and interpretive signage. The trail should seek

to connect places of environmental and historical

significance. It should also include attractions such as

look-outs, existing recreational facilities and tourist

related businesses such as eateries, bed and breakfast

accommodation and hotels.

It is important to understand the role that on-ground

assessments and flagging of the potential trail route

have in relation to the preparation of the concept

design. The concept design needs to be based on the

on-ground findings as well as principles of sustainable

trail design. Trail routes which are shown on maps with

clearly defined control points or flagged trail corridors

are easier to explain to stakeholders, land managers

and funding bodies. In addition, accurate assessments

of costs and timelines cannot be determined unless the

physical feasibility of the trail has been considered.

Once the trail has been approved, funded or a

tender awarded to a contractor, the concept design

can be refined to accommodate cost restrictions

and requirements set by the land manager, owner

or funding body. A further review of the final

design and flagged corridor by responsible parties

and key stakeholders should occur before the

construction begins.

5 Available at www.horsesa.asn.au


31



5.9 F U N D I N GSourcing appropriate levels of funding for the

construction and ongoing maintenance for the trail

is essential. While this can seem a daunting prospect

(especially when many Government Departments will

only fund 50% of the project) the best approach is to

develop a Funding Strategy based on a ‘cocktail’ of

grants and in-kind support. For example, a Funding

Strategy may focus on applying for three or four

different grants from Government Departments,

together with assistance from the local Council and

in-kind support from the community or user group.

Such an approach will reduce the amount of money

requested from each Government Department and,

therefore, improve the chances of success.

It is also useful to break the project into stages such

as; feasibility study; concept design; and construction.

It may also be possible to stage the construction of

the trail over a number of years. In this way, an initially

large cost can be broken down into smaller ‘bite-

size’ chunks which may be more palatable to funding

agencies. Staging a project will also reduce the level of

perceived risk associated with the project as each stage

will only proceed once the previous stage has been

successfully completed.

When seeking funding, it is important to think

beyond the traditional grants which are available

from the recreation and planning related Government

Departments. Given the often close link that

recreational trails have with the natural environment,

funding from environmental organisations at a local,

regional, state and federal level are becoming more

and more common. A project which can demonstrate

a strong component of environmental rehabilitation

is likely to attract funding from a much wider range

of agencies.

When preparing a Funding Strategy and when writing

applications for grants, it is very important that

consideration be given to the strategic objectives of

the relevant Government Department. The application

should clearly articulate how the project will help

the Department to further its goals and, ideally,

should demonstrate links to relevant strategic plans.

If these links or the objectives of the Department are

unclear, it is strongly recommended that a meeting be

arranged between the proponents of the trail and the

Government Officers who are responsible for allocating

funding. Such a meeting will determine whether an

application to a specific grant is worth pursuing and, if

so, what the Officers will be looking for when they make

their assessment. It may be appropriate to seek the

assistance of the peak user group(s) when preparing

funding applications.

In addition to the potential sources of funding

described in Section 4, many alternative grants

which should be considered can be found at the

following websites:

https://www.sa.gov.au/topics/employment-and-finance/

financial-support/grants

http://www.grantassist.sa.gov.au/community



32



C ONS ULTAT ION T ECHNIQUE S

6

6.1 INTRODUCTION

6.2 CONSULTATION OR COMMUNICATION?

6.3 COMMUNICATION AND CONSULTATION

TECHNIQUES GUIDELINES

33



6.1 I N T R O D U C T I O NThe planning, development and management of

trails is likely to involve a number of organisations,

groups and individuals who have an interest in the

project. The term ‘stakeholder’ is commonly used to

describe these groups and individuals. Stakeholders

are generally directly affected or have a strong interest

in the proposal. Failure to adequately consult with

stakeholders is one of the most common reasons for

the collapse of trail proposals. However, projects which

include genuine and transparent consultation are more

likely to be successful and can generate a level of

goodwill which can assist in the ongoing management

of the trail once construction is completed.

6.2 C O N S U LTAT I O N O R C O M M U N I C AT I O N ?

Whenever there is a potential that a stakeholder may

be affected in relation to a trail project, consultation

will be required. There are two consultation processes

that are available: a) Communication Only and

b) Communication and Consultation. A decision should

be made during the early stages of planning for the

trail to determine if stakeholder issues are likely to have

an impact on the outcome. This will then determine

the most appropriate process of consultation. Further

information on the two processes is provided on

page 35.

The following flow chart identifies the key steps of

the Communication and/or Consultation Process. A

combined Communication and Consultation Process is

highlighted in pale yellow while a Communication Only

Process is highlighted in blue.

STEP ONE DETERMINE PURPOSE AND SCOPE

STEP FOUR SELECT APPROPRIATE METHODS

STEP SEVEN SELECT APPROPRIATE METHODS

STEP EIGHT TIMEFRAME AND RESOURCES

STEP NINE EVALUATE AND SHARE THE LEARNINGS

STEP FIVE TIMEFRAME AND RESOURCES

STEP SIX PROVIDE FEEDBACK

STEP TWO STAKEHOLDER IDENTIFICATION

STEP THREE DECIDE ON NATURE OF STAKEHOLDER LIASON

(Communication only or Communication

and Consultation)

Figure 3: Communication and Consultation Determination Flowchart (Source: AHazebroek)

6 . 0 C O N S U L T A T I O N T E C H N I Q U E S

34



COMMUNICATION PROCESS

The Communication Only Process should be adopted

when the stakeholder has no, or minimal ability to

influence the decision or outcome. However, it will be

important to get a message across in a consistent way

ensuring that a stakeholder is kept informed. This will

assist in building a positive relationship that may impact

favourably on future activities.

COMMUNICATION AND CONSULTATION PROCESS

The combined Communication and Consultation

Process should be adopted when it is important or

necessary that stakeholders have input which may

influence a decision or outcome. Stakeholders may test

ideas or options and in some cases, may contribute to

a mutually acceptable outcome. It will be important

to use a combination of effective communication and

consultation techniques to ensure that a positive result

is achieved.

The figure below is designed to assist in identifying

if the Communication or the Communication and

Consultation Process should be adopted. The degree

of sensitivity or potential stakeholder impact (shown

at left of the chart) displays the impact the stakeholder

issues are likely to have on the project.

DEGREE OF COMPLEXITY, TECHNICAL OR DESIGN DIFFICULTY

LOW MEDIUM HIGH

DE

GR

EE

OF

SE

NS

ITIV

ITY

OR

P

OT

EN

TIA

L S

TA

KE

HO

LD

ER

IM

PA

CT

Stakeholder issues

WILL NOT IMPACT

on project/activity

outcome LO

W

Least complex

• Communication plan

• Minimal time impact

• Minimal $ impact

Low to Moderate

complexity


• Moderate time impact

• Moderate $ impact

High complexity

• Detailed communication

plan



Stakeholder issues

MAY DRIVE CHANGE

to some aspects

of the project/activity

ME

DIU

M

Moderate complexity


and consultation plan



Moderate complexity


and consultation plan



High complexity


plan and consultation

plan

• Moderate–high time

impact

• Moderate–high $ impact

Stakeholder issues

WILL FORCE CHANGE

OR DERAIL

project/activity

HIG

H

Moderate to High

complexity



plan

• High time impact

• High $ impact

High complexity



plan

• High time impact

• High $ impact

Most complex



plan

• Extreme time impact

• Extreme $ impact

Projects that fall

into this category

will require only

a low level plan

Projects that fall into this category

will require a detailed plan

Figure 4: Communication and Consultation Complexity Chart (Source: AHazebroek)


35



6.3 C O M M U N I C AT I O N A N D C O N S U LTAT I O N T E C H N I Q U E S G U I D E L I N E S

The figure below highlights the key techniques

that may be considered for Communication and/

or Consultation and the objectives that using

those techniques will achieve.

OBJECTIVEP

rovid

e In

form

ati

on

Main

tain

aw

are

ness

/ U

pd

ati

ng

in

form

ati

on

Ind

en

tify

co

ncern

s an

d iss

ues

Develo

p o

bje

cti

ves

/ Is

sues

Develo

p o

pti

on

s

Test

id

eas

/ P

rio

rtis

e o

pti

on

s

Bu

ild r

ela

tio

nsh

ips

an

d invo

lvem

en

t

Ach

ieve c

on

sen

sus

Reach

larg

e n

um

bers

of

stakeh

old

ers

Reach

peo

ple

wh

o d

on

’t r

ead

ily p

art

icip

ate

Infl

uen

ce s

mall

gro

up

s /

Ind

ivid

ual co

nta

ct

Ob

tain

in

pu

t in

to d

ecis

ion

makin

g

Sati

sfy s

tatu

tory

req

uir

em

en

ts (

eg

. veg

cle

ara

nce)

Advertisement / Media

Letter / Phone call

Newsletter / Brochure

Internet

Signs / Maps / Models

Public Display / Exhibition

Meetings with key individuals

Submissions from stakeholders

Telephone Hotline

Surveys

Presentations to existing groups

Local community group meetings

Public meetings

Community event

Open day information session

Figure 5: Tools and Techniques Matrix (Source: AHazebroek)


36



T R A IL DE S IGN A ND C ONS T R UC T ION

7

7.1 INTRODUCTION

7.2 TRAIL SYSTEM

7.3 TRAIL CLASSIFICATION

7.4 SINGLE OR SHARED-USE?

7.5 DESIGNING SUSTAINABLE TRAILS

7.6 CONSTRUCTING THE TRAIL

7.7 COASTAL TRAILS

7.8 URBAN TRAILS

7.9 SIGNAGE

7.10 OTHER FACILITIES

37



7.1 I N T R O D U C T I O NThis section of the Trails Guidelines provides guidance

on how to design and construct sustainable trails. It

assumes that a decision has been made on who the

target user group(s) will be and that various alternative

options have been explored. Most of the information

relates to providing trails in natural settings, although

some of the guidelines and references are applicable to

creating trails in urban settings.

The guidelines within this chapter can be applied to

both single-use (walking, cycling, horse riding) and

shared-use (any combination of walking, cycling or

horse riding). In addition to these guidelines, it is

strongly recommended that trail designers consult

other recognised texts6.

There are a number of different trail possibilities,

options, and characteristics, as outlined in previous

sections of the guidelines (see Appendix A for different

trail classes). Most of the following information

relates to the creation of shared-use trails for walkers,

cyclists and horse riders. Where there are particular

requirements relating to a specific user group or sub-

group these have been identified and highlighted.

Where possible, useful reference material or contacts

are also identified.

The concept and definition of sustainable trails has

been discussed in previous sections of these guidelines.

It is worth reiterating that sustainable trails do not

require extensive infrastructure. They make the most

of the natural features of an area without introducing

infrastructure that may compromise the natural

appeal and character of the area: the reason users are

attracted to trails in the first place. An important ‘rule

of thumb’, therefore, is to plan the route so that the

need for infrastructure, such as bridges, switchbacks,

retaining walls, etc., is minimised. This will not only

minimise associated visual and environmental impacts,

it will also mean a cheaper trail to build and maintain.

7.2 T R A I L S Y S T E MGenerally, it is preferable to design a trail system with

loops that offer a number of options and a variety of

experiences, while preventing the need to back track,

Figure 6 illustrates the most common trail systems that

can be considered during the design process. A stacked

trail loop system will provide opportunities to design

trails that appeal to different user groups: the core trail,

which leads from the trail head, can be wide, smooth,

open and flowing; while other loops branching from it

can be narrower and more challenging. Intersections

should occur on relatively level ground and where there

is good visibility.

Linear trails generally connect two distant points,

often providing an off-road alternative for users and

extending over considerable distances. Because of

the distances involved it may be necessary to utilise

existing low traffic roads and/or unmade road reserves.

Because of the potential for conflict with other

road users it will be necessary to identify the nature

and volume of other road users to determine their

suitability. Unmade road reserves may offer excellent

opportunities for linear trails. However, they are also

likely to contain significant remnant vegetation because

of their historic public ownership, are sometimes

licensed for use by adjoining landowners and can

be located on steep terrain. The local Council should

be able to provide details on traffic numbers and

licence arrangements.

6 See Appendix E for a list of publications

7 . 0 T R A I L D E S I G N A N D C O N S T R U C T I O N

38



7.3 T R A I L C L A S S I F I C AT I O NTrail classification allows land managers to develop,

design, build, promote and maintain trails appropriate

for the anticipated trail users. Australian Standard

2156.1 Walking Tracks Part 1: Classification and Signage

identifies six classes of walking tracks, describing each

in terms of the elements used for classification and the

resulting management considerations.

Public land management agencies across Australia

including DEWNR have adopted the Australian

Walking Track Grading System a plain English language

description to describe walks to the public.

Under the system, walking trails are graded on a

difficulty scale from grades on to five.

G R A D E O N E is suitable for the disabled with assistance

G R A D E T WO is suitable for families with young children

G R A D E T H R E E is recommended for people with some

bushwalking experience

G R A D E F O U R is recommended for experienced

bushwalkers, and

G R A D E F I V E is recommended for very experienced

bushwalker

Reference should be made to these documents to

identify the various requirements, expectations and

characteristics for each trail type.

Trails for mountain bikes use a different classification

system ranging from easy to severe. The classification

system for horse riding trails is different again, ranging

from easy to advanced. A summary of the trail classes

for the various user groups is provided in Appendix A.

If a network of trails is being proposed, the provision

of a variety of trails from each classification will

ensure that a range of recreational opportunities are

available which are suitable for beginners through to

experienced users.

7.4 S I N G L E O R S H A R E D - U S E ?The planning and design phase should clearly

determine whether the trail is intended for single

or shared-use. While trails can be designed to

accommodate a range of users, this will depend on

a number of factors including demand, cost, access

and land suitability. Shared-use trails will encourage

greater usage and allow increased levels of access for

a wider section of the population, however, they must

be carefully designed to minimise the risk of conflict

Linear Loop Stacked loop

LINEAR LOOP STACKED LOOP

• for long distance trails

• for goal orientated trails eg.

access to areas, linking facilities

• side trails can allow access to

secondary recreation features,

special features, interpretive

information and views

• always guides the user back to

the trailhead

• no need to retrace steps so can

be more interesting to use

• less physical wear

• offers a variety of travel

distances

• can be used to offer a

variety of difficulties to suit

user ability

• can work at different layers

according to the seasons

Linear Loop Stacked loopLinear Loop Stacked loop

Figure 6: Common Trail Systems (Source: Department for Environment & Heritage)


39



between users. In some cases, this can be achieved

through appropriate trail width, separation of paths, the

use of signage and the promotion of codes of practice7.

In other cases, topographical or other constraints

will not allow this to occur while also achieving

environmental sustainability.

7.5 D E S I G N I N G S U S TA I N A B L E T R A I L S

7.5.1 GATHERING THE INFORMATION

Prior to commencing the design process, it is important

to collect as much information as possible about the

land. Typically this will include and involve:

• maps showing cadastral boundaries, topographic

features such as drainage lines and contours

• land ownership and adjacent land uses, including

opportunities for linkages to surrounding areas

• location and type of vegetation, soils and other

natural features (e.g. rare or threatened species,

important habitat, Phytophthora risk areas, etc.)

• aerial photographs.

Useful tools to take into the field include:

• compass, topographical map and altimeter

(to determine altitude)

• GPS

• clinometer (to measure grades)

• digital camera.

7.5.2 IDENTIFYING CONTROL POINTS

This information can then be used to identify control

points. These are places of interest that trail users

will be attracted to (desirable) or should avoid

(inappropriate). They will dictate where the trail should

commence and finish, the location of parking areas,

structures, slopes for turns or switchbacks, and road or

watercourse crossings. Control points are also used to

control the gradient of the trail.

DESIRABLE

CONTROL POINTS

INAPPROPRIATE

CONTROL POINTS

Scenic overlooks;

long distance views

Environmentally sensitive

areas (e.g. wildlife habitat,

rare plant species)

Waterfalls and

other water features

Steep side slopes

Rocky outcrops Lowlying wet/boggy areas

Historical sites Water crossings and

riparian zones

Geological

monuments

Sensitive archaeological

sites

Archaeological sites Known weed infested or

diseased areas

Existing access points,

roads or other trails

Inappropriate soils (e.g.

loose sand, boggy clays)

Water crossings present particular challenges to trail

designers and increase in complexity when designing

Class one, two and three walking trails: ideally, water

crossings should be avoided if possible. Additional

information on water crossings is provided in

Section 7.6.

7.5.3 SUSTAINABLE TRAILS FOLLOW

THE CONTOURS

Having identified the control points, and confirmed

their location in the field, mark the desirable (green

marker) and inappropriate (red marker) control points

on the topographic map. Connect the green dots while

following the natural contours, and avoid the red dots.

The most sustainable trails are those that have a low

overall grade (less than 10%, or a one in 10 change in

elevation) to minimise the potential for water erosion.

Combined with an outslope, or ‘crossfall’ on the trail

path which slopes gently away from the high side, and

regular grade reversals or undulations, this will ensure

that water flows across and not along the trail.

7 For an example see ‘Horse Riders Code of Practice’ at www.horsesa.asn.au


40



If steeper sections are unavoidable they should be as

short as possible (not exceeding 20 metres in length)

and have a maximum gradient no more than 50% of the

fall line gradient (the half rule). Steep sections should

be preceded and followed by a grade reversal to shed

water away from the trail. Consider armouring the trail

tread with rock to minimise the potential for erosion

(for further information see Section 7.6).

7.5.4 GRADE REVERSALS

A subtle left or right turn of the trail as it continues

along a hillside will create grade reversals that help to

divert water off the trail (see photo 6). A trail along a

steep slope may require grade reversals every 10-15

metres, depending on soil type and rainfall.

Incorporating grade reversals will avoid the need to

build water-diversion devices later. They also break up

a climb or descent and can provide recovery sections

for users.

Regular changes in grade will also assist in controlling

excessive speeds by mountain bike riders. Grade

reversals are also beneficial before and after steep

sections, with smooth transitions between different

grades; and at the approach to a watercourse, to

disperse water and silt away from the watercourse.

7.5.5 TRAIL FLOW

Mountain bike riders tend to travel faster than walkers

and horse riders and therefore trails designed for them

should have a certain tempo or rhythm (referred to as

flow). Contour trail designs can have three basic types

of flow: open and flowing, tight and technical or hybrid

(a combination of both) (see Figure 8).

Open and flowing trails have wide smoother surfaces,

long sight lines, sweeping turns and appeal to less

skilled cyclists or those who enjoy travelling fast. Tight

and technical trails have sharper turns, narrower and

rougher surfaces, and sometimes include obstacles.

By their very design these trails dictate that users

slow down.

Hybrid trails blend the features of both with transitions

between the different sections. Transitions should

occur gradually with good sightlines or on top of hills

to minimise the need for heavy braking and skidding.

The trail flow should be planned to suit the host

environment. In grassland and open woodland areas

users are likely to short-cut tight corners, so open and

flowing trails are preferable. In more densely vegetated

areas sight lines are more limited, so it’s best to keep

user speeds down with tight and technical trails.

7.5.6 WALK AND FLAG THE TRAIL CORRIDOR AND

PREPARE A CONSTRUCTION PLAN

Using flagging tape, mark the trail corridor that has

been mapped. Tight and technical trails probably

require flags every metre or so, whereas open flowing

trails will do with a flag every 5 to 10 metres. At least

two consecutive flags should be visible and placed

at eye level to enable grades to be identified using

a clinometer.

Where possible utilise natural features in any way that

helps to minimise the trail’s imprint on the landscape.

In particular, trails should be routed on the uphill

side of large trees to minimise the impact on root

Figure 7: Drainage. Take advantage of the topography to improve

drainage (Source: Department for Environment & Heritage)

Poor design Open and flowingTight and technicalPoor design Open and flowingTight and technicalPoor design Open and flowingTight and technical

Figure 8: Trail Flow (Source: adapted from IMBA, 2001)

Poor design (abrupt transitions from one type of design to another)

Tight and technical

Open and flowing

Photo 6: Grade reversals


41



systems. Tie the flags around the tree with the knot

on the side which the trail will pass. Look for natural

flat spots, animal tracks or corridors (which often

follow sustainable gradients), areas of exposed flat or

curved rocks, and incorporate such features into the

trail if possible. Trails that avoid straight lines tend to

be less visually obtrusive, so plan curves in the trail

that follow consistent arcs (whether sweeping or

tight). The flagged route should be detailed enough to

clearly delineate all features for the construction crew,

including grade reversals.

Having flagged the preferred route, it will now be

necessary to liaise with other key stakeholders

to develop a Construction Plan. Key stakeholders

might include the land managers, Local Government

representatives, the trail users, adjoining landowners,

Government agencies, conservation interests, etc. This

will involve reaching agreement on:

• trail dimensions, including the corridor width, the

path width, and the ceiling height (i.e. the area to be

clear of any obstructions)

• how the trail will be built, timelines for construction,

and who will be responsible

• the type and location of, and responsibilities for,

associated infrastructure (e.g. signage, parking bays,

watercourse crossings, stiles, etc).

It is particularly important to consider the conservation

values of the area prior to finalising any trail layout.

A balance needs to be achieved between providing a

trail in an area that people are attracted to because of

its natural assets, and protecting the long-term integrity

of those assets. An evaluation which may require the

assistance of experts should consider:

• the Vegetation Association Conservation Status,

which rates the uniqueness or rarity of the relevant

vegetation association

• the National, State and Regional conservation status

of flora and fauna

• ecosystem integrity, which determines vegetation

condition on a scale of one (pristine) to six

(completely degraded)

• aboriginal cultural sites and European heritage sites

• critical habitat for uncommon, rare and

endangered species

• presence of threats such as plant pathogens (eg

Phytophthora) to natural and agricultural values.

A decision will need to be made about controlling

and managing access to sensitive sites (e.g. an intact

riparian zone). It may be preferable to plan for visitation

and manage potential adverse impacts through the

provision of suitable infrastructure rather than allow

unmanaged movement through the area.

The potential disturbance of places or sites of

Aboriginal cultural significance should also be

considered. Particular care should be taken in coastal

areas or along relatively undisturbed creeklines where

signs of Aboriginal occupation may be present. These

features, together with other significant landforms, also

often form important elements in Aboriginal Dreaming

stories which describe the creation of the landscape

and establish guidelines for sustainable living.

Having completed any required studies, involved

the various stakeholders, and obtained the relevant

approvals, it’s now possible to flag the final alignment

of the trail using pin flags. The frequency of flags will

depend on the nature of the trail: fewer flags for open,

flowing trails; more flags for tighter, technical trails.

Identify which obstacles will remain on the trail and

which are to be removed. Use natural terrain features

as a guide, to accentuate curves and grade reversals.

Avoid long straight lines. It’s preferable to locate the

pin flags on the downhill edge of the path as they can

remain in place during construction and assist with

determining the depth of bench cut, if required.

7.5.7 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH, SAFETY

AND WELFARE

These guidelines assume that sufficient measures are

taken to maximise construction crew safety during the

course of building trails. In summary, this should include

attention to:

• establishing/maintaining safe methods of work

• work place hazard assessment including potential

environmental hazards (e.g. snakes, dehydration, heat

and cold).

• crew induction

• access to first aid in the event of an emergency

• appropriate clothing and tools and a clear

understanding of how to use tools, operate

machinery in a safe manner and wash station

for hygiene


42



This may require the preparation of an emergency

plan prior to commencing construction, the allocation

of responsibilities in the event of an emergency, and

adequate briefing and appropriate training of all

construction crew (paid and volunteer).

7.6 C O N S T R U C T I N G T H E T R A I LThe trail path is referred to as the tread. The width of

the tread will vary depending on the intended user

group(s), the type of trail being constructed and the

intended degree of difficulty (see Appendix A). There

may be a need to clear the tread of obstacles (trees,

branches, larger rocks). Smaller trees and bushes

should be dug out, roots and all. If possible, avoid the

need to remove larger trees by realigning the trail

around (uphill of) the tree.

Generally, in the metropolitan area and within some

townships, trees with a circumference of two metres or

more, measured one metre above ground level, cannot

be removed or pruned without the prior approval

of the relevant planning authority (usually the local

Council). Additional approvals for vegetation removal

may be required from the Native Vegetation Council13.

It is important to note that native vegetation includes

grasses, shrubs and bushes as well as trees. This means

that, while a trail proposal may not involve the removal

of any trees, if it includes any damage to, or removal

of, native grasses and/or bushes, the approval of the

Native Vegetation Council may be required.

In some, limited, situations, an approval from the Native

Vegetation Council may not be necessary. Specifically,

the clearance of native vegetation to establish or

maintain a one metre wide walking trail may not require

approval if there are no other alternative locations and

the vegetation does not form part of a road reserve14.

However, it is strongly recommended that advice be

sought from the Native Vegetation Council prior to the

clearance of any native vegetation. Significant penalties

may apply if vegetation is removed or damaged

without the relevant approvals (see Section 3.2 for

further information).

http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/managing-natural-

resources/native-vegetation

The risk of spread of plant disease should be

minimised by pruning trees based on the advice of

a horticulturalist. Place any cut trees and branches

downhill of the trail, preferably a few metres away from

the tread with the trunk end pointing away from the

trail. Clear the width of the tread and rake any leaf litter

and debris to one side (preferably uphill). This can be

used later to cover any soil removed from the bench cut

to give a more natural appearance. It is commonplace

to use hand tools to make the bench cut, but the use of

suitable machinery is an increasingly favoured option if

done with sensitivity to the environment.

Consideration should also be given to the development

of a bushfire action plan if work is carried out during

the fire danger season to ensure the risk of fire starting

is minimised and if a fire starts in adjacent country the

crew are aware and an exit plan is established.

7.6.1 THE TRAIL CROSSSECTION

Usually trails are built on sloping ground and therefore

some excavation will be required to achieve a full or

partial bench construction. Full bench tread involves

excavating down and into the hillside and puts the

entire tread width on mineral soil, thereby maximising

stability and minimising ongoing maintenance (see

Figure 10 and Photo 7). Partial bench tread involves

using some of the excavated soil to construct the

downhill side of the tread (see Figure 11). This technique

is prone to slipping and is not recommended, except in

specific circumstances when done in conjunction with a

retaining wall.

Figure 9: Trail cross section – terms and descriptions

(Source: IMBA, 2001)

Trail Corridor

Trail Tread(outsloped 5%)

Critical Point(rounded)

Side Slope

Back Slope(gently blended)

Tra

il C

eili

ng


43



When roots or impenetrable rock make it difficult

to establish a full bench a retaining wall can be built

to support the down slope side (see Photo 8). The

retaining wall stabilises the soil, preventing it from

creeping downhill. Make sure the top of the retaining

wall is lower than the tread to allow water to sheet

across the trail. The uphill side of the tread is called

the back-cut or back slope. It’s important to blend the

back-cut into the grade of the hill to minimise its visual

impact and prevent erosion (see Figure 10). The trail

tread should have an outslope of 3-5% in the direction

of the fall line. This is critical and will assist the sheeting

of water across the trail. Any excavated topsoil should

be thrown downhill away from the trail to avoid the

creation of ridges of soil, which will deter sheet flow.

Figure 10: Full bench construction (Source: IMBA, 2001)

Hillside before trail: Incomplete Full Bench: Full Bench Cut:

Hillside before trail: Vegetation keeps water sheeting slowly downhill

Incomplete Full Bench: Left with unfinished vertical cut, soil will slough off, making tread narrower.

Obtrusive back cut also forces rider to outside of tread.

Full Bench Cut: Entire tread width is cut into firm mineral soil. Tread compacts uniformly and is sustainable. 5% outslope ensures water sheets across tread. Back cut is blended into back slope. Proper back slope, out slope and full bench cut minimize maintenance.

Figure 11: Partial bench construction (Source: IMBA, 2001)

Half bench: Partial bench with retaining wall:

Half bench: Relatively easy to construct, but fill soil may collapse and creep down slope, requiring excessive maintenance.

Partial bench with retaining wall: In some cases, tread must be supported by a retaining wall. Wall holds fill soil in place and tread is out-sloped over top of wall.

Photo 7: Bench cut on a trail

Photo 8: Retaining wall in association with

a bench cut trail


44



7.6.2 THE TRAIL SURFACE

While a natural surface for recreational trails may be

appropriate in many situations, the application of an

artificial trail surface (e.g. bitumen, crushed rock, sand)

may be required as indicated by the classification

chosen for the trail and who the primary users will be, if

there is anticipated high use or if sections of the natural

surface is loose or prone to instability. For example, for

more technical mountain bike trails, it may be preferable

to leave natural obstacles such as rocks and tree

roots provided that they are not safety hazards or will

contribute to erosion. On bench-cut trails, it’s usually

preferable to remove rocks on the inside edge of the

tread, otherwise users will be forced to the outside edge,

possibly resulting in tread widening or break down.

Large, rounded, flat and stable rocks should generally

be kept in place to assist with tread stability. Sharper

and loose rocks can be removed, always filling and

compacting the remaining hole with available soil.

Roots with diameters larger than pencil diameter

should be removed, especially if they run parallel to

the trail, to avoid the potential for erosion. Larger roots

running across treads can be retained to provide a

more challenging experience. Alternatively, fill over

large roots, possibly using a small retaining wall or

armouring, to prevent damage to larger feeder roots of

trees with consideration of drainage.

Ultimately, the trail should be the ‘path of least

resistance’ even in difficult terrain. This will ensure that

users do not leave the trail and form new, easier routes.

7.6.3 SURFACE WATER CONTROL

Diverting surface water off the trail is of the highest

priority in achieving sustainable trails. Running water

will erode the tread and support structures and result

in the deposition of sedimentation. Standing water can

result in soft boggy conditions, and tread and support

structure failure. The most effective way to address

these risks is through designing contour trails and

outsloping the tread, as previously discussed and as

illustrated in Photo 9.

A grade dip is where the grade of the trail is reversed

for about three to five metres and then ‘rolled’ back

over to resume the descent. Using the existing terrain

(e.g. where the trail winds around trees or rocks) as

the control point for the grade reversal and building

on the local drainage to remove water from the tread

is the most effective means of incorporating grade

dips. The drain outlet (the lowest point of the grade

dip) may require some protection by the placement of

guide structures, such as rocks, along the lower edge

of the tread. Grade dips are best located mid-slope

and frequently enough to prevent water from building

enough volume and velocity to damage the tread.

Waterbars are the least preferred tread structure.

Structures, such as wood or rock, are placed at an angle

across and extending above the tread to direct water

off the lower edge of the tread. Poorly constructed and

maintained waterbars are prone to clogging or erosion

and can become tripping hazards and a barrier to

wheeled traffic.

7.6.4 ARMOURING

This is the practice of using rock to harden trails. It’s

useful in two situations; in creating an elevated trail

tread above especially soft or wet terrain where no

alternative route is possible, and to harden the trail

tread against user caused (as opposed to water

caused) erosion. If the erosion is being caused by

poor drainage then this should be rectified by placing

suitable sized pipes under the tread prior to armouring

otherwise the water will destroy the armouring by

flowing under the rocks.

7.6.5 INCORPORATING TURNS ON HILLSIDES

Where it’s necessary to gain elevation in a short

distance it will be necessary to incorporate a turn into

the trail alignment. Two types of turns are possible: a

climbing turn or a switchback turn (see Figure 12 and

Photo 10). Both are relatively difficult, expensive and

time consuming to construct so it’s best to plan trails

with a minimum number of turns if possible. Avoid

‘stacking’ turns up a hill by using the full available

width of the hill (see Figures 13 and 14). Always seek

the flattest site to construct a turn and in the planning

stage identify such sites as control points.

Photo 9: The yellow line shows the bike/walking trail and the blue lines show drainage lines to minimise erosion on the trail. This design diverts water away from the trail to minimise erosion.


45



On side slopes not exceeding a grade of 7% it may be

appropriate to construct a climbing turn (see Figure 13).

They should be free flowing and gentle with a wide (at

least 10 metre) radius.

Switchbacks are more appropriate and durable on

steeper slopes. The rolling crown switchback (see

Figure 14) is designed to facilitate good drainage. It

usually requires the construction of a retaining wall

to shore up the turning platform. In these instances

it’s best to use large (at least 20kg) rocks and

preferably larger (70kg) rectangular shaped rocks or

manufactured retaining wall interlocking blocks. This

will require some excavation of the ‘footings’ to anchor

the larger foundation rocks or blocks. The wall should

tilt into the slope with a batter or tilt of 2:1 (i.e. an

inward tilt of one metre for every two metres of height),

but never shallower than 4:1.

By incorporating a natural or placed barrier in the apex

of a turn, trail users will be deterred from taking short

cuts (see Figure 15).

Figure 12: Switchbacks (Source: Department for Environment & Heritage)

Figure 13: Climbing turn detail (Source: IMBA, 2001)

Turn Section(directly in fall)

Turn Section

Side slope(7% maximum)

Naturalor placed barrier

Outslope(5%)

Outslope(5%)

Outslope(5%)

Outslope(5%)

Outslope(5%)

Gradereversal Back

slope

Backslope

SIDE VIEW:TOP VIEW:

Turn Section(directly in fall)

Turn Section

Side slope(7% maximum)

Naturalor placed barrier

Outslope(5%)

Outslope(5%)

Outslope(5%)

Outslope(5%)

Outslope(5%)

Gradereversal Back

slope

Backslope

SIDE VIEW:TOP VIEW:

SIDE VIEW: A climbing turn is any turn that ascends (or descends) on the fall line of a sideslope. Improve sustainability by placing climbing turns on gentle slopes and using grade reversals to drain water above them. Climbing turns should have a large turning radius and barriers between legs to prevent shortcutting

TOP VIEW: Maintain constant grade and radius through the turn section. Climbing turns may not be sustainable on side slopes exceeding 7% grade

Photo 10: Switchbacks on a walking trail


46



7.6.6 WATERCOURSE CROSSINGS

Water crossings are a critical element of trail design and

construction and the type of crossing will be influenced

by the trail classification you are seeking. A water

crossing is the site where the trail may have the greatest

impact on water quality and the site where water has

the greatest potential to damage the trail. With this in

mind, it is always preferable to avoid establishing new

water crossings by utilising existing crossings where

possible. If a new crossing is unavoidable, it is important

to seek professional advice from a suitably qualified

Engineer in relation to the design and construction

of any structure proposed to be built over or through

a watercourse. Also, it is important to note that any

activity (including the construction of a trail) which has

the potential to affect the natural flow of water within

a watercourse may require a permit for water affecting

activities from the Department of Environment Water

and Natural Resources.

If a trail must cross a watercourse, it is important to

design the crossing to minimise the potential for runoff

(and therefore erosion and sedimentation) from the

trail into the watercourse. The design and construction

of the entry and exit points to the water crossing are

particularly important. If the water crossing involves

a ford, it is possible that the soil around the entry and

exit points will become disturbed and prone to erosion.

In this situation, some hardening of the trail along the

entry and exist points may be required.

For trails running alongside watercourses, the impacts

on water quality and the riparian zone (i.e. the land

along the edge of a watercourse) will be minimised by

building trails on gentle slopes and directing water flow

off the trail and away from the watercourse.

If a structure is required to cross the watercourse,

a number of options are available ranging from a

basic culvert for minor crossings to a bridge for more

substantial watercourses. Bridges can range from a

simple foot bridge to multiple span, suspended, and

truss structures (see Photos 11 and 12). If a bridge is the

chosen option for a water crossing, then the following

factors will need to be considered in conjunction with

professional advice obtained from an Engineer and

reference to the relevant Australian Standards such as

AS 2156.2-2001 Walking Tracks – Infrastructure Design:

• The potential for flooding during peak storm events.

This will have implications for bridge clearances. The

local Council or land manager may have information

on the extent of flooding during a 1 in 100 year event.

Figure 14: Rolling Crown Switchback Detail (Source: IMBA, 2001)

Outslope(5%)

Back slope

Back slope

Gradereversal

Begin inslope 6mfrom landing Upper (descending)

leg should notexceed 10%

Crowned landing(drains in all directions

at 5% grade)

Drainage

Outslope(5%)

Lower (climbing)leg should notexceed 15%

Outslope(5%) Retaining wall

Cut slope

Inslopedupper leg (5%)

Crownedlanding(5%)

Outslopedlower leg (5%)

SIDE VIEW:

TOP VIEW

SIDE VIEW: This shows the most sustainable type of turn on steep sideslopes. Inslope the trailbed on the upper leg as it transitions to the crowned landing. The landing should have a 3.5 to 5.5 metre diameter, depending on trail width. The landing is outsloped in all directions. Build a grade reversal just before the upper leg to move water off the trail before it reaches the landing

TOP VIEW

Outslope(5%)

Back slope

Back slope

Gradereversal

Begin inslope 6mfrom landing Upper (descending)

leg should notexceed 10%

Crowned landing(drains in all directions

at 5% grade)

Drainage

Outslope(5%)

Lower (climbing)leg should notexceed 15%

Outslope(5%) Retaining wall

Cut slope

Inslopedupper leg (5%)

Crownedlanding(5%)

Outslopedlower leg (5%)

SIDE VIEW:

TOP VIEW

Figure 15: Blocking shortcuts. Use natural features to block

shortcuts. (Source: Department for Environment & Heritage)


47



• Make the bridge high enough so that the approaches

are on gentle slopes and there are no sudden

transitions in grade or direction.

• Make the bridge strong enough to carry above the

anticipated loads. Some engineering advice may

be required.

• Use materials that blend with the natural

environment, are sturdy and long lasting, and are

locally sourced if possible.

• Consider the safety of users in terms of approach

speeds, the need for rails, avoiding protrusions, slip

resistant surfaces, and adequate sightlines.

7.6.7 LOW LYING AND BOGGY TERRAIN

Low lying and boggy sections should be avoided if

possible because surface water will not adequately

drain away from the tread. If there is no other option

then consider the need for a boardwalk (see photos 13

and 14) or a raised reinforced tread, such as armouring.

Another alternative is to consider the use of geo-textile

materials that allow drainage, separate the underlying

soil from the tread surface and reinforce the trail

tread8. In some circumstances, rubber mats may

be an appropriate, relatively inexpensive alternative

which keeps the surface of the trail solid without

intensifying erosion.

7.7 C OA S TA L T R A I L SCoastal locations are generally characterised by stable

and unstable dunal systems and fragile vegetation

and micro-environments or cliff tops. They are also

landscapes that are highly valued by the public and

susceptible to visual intrusion by ‘foreign objects’. Given

these sensitivities, additional care needs to be taken

in the planning, design and construction phases to

minimise environmental and visual impacts.

Factors to consider include:

• Avoid locating trails in unstable dunal systems,

or where the construction of the trail is likely to

contribute to such conditions.

• Coastal locations often have a high number of

Aboriginal cultural sites.

• Consider the ecological sensitivity of the area and

the potential impact on habitat, breeding locations,

animal movement patterns, etc.

• Consider the use of raised boardwalks or ‘sand

ladders’ to allow for shifting sand levels, the protection

of sensitive vegetation, animal movement and

stormwater flows. Minimise visual intrusion by keeping

structures low to the ground and using materials that

blend with the landscape and are durable.

• Ensure that the location of the trail will not

encourage traffic onto sensitive areas. Provide for

controlled access points to/from the beach and

inland areas.

• Consider potential visual impacts, not only from

the land, but also from the water and beach. Avoid

8 For an example of this approach, see information about the

Brownhill Creek Recreation Park trails project on the Horse SA

website www.horsesa.asn.au

Photo 11: Bridge: Simple design

Photo 13: Boardwalk through

wetlands

Photo 14: Boardwalk through

low lying terrain

Photo 12: Bridge: Complex design


48



locating extensive infrastructure in visually prominent

locations such as cliff tops, headlands, the terminal

vistas of adjacent roads, etc.

• Use materials for the trail tread surface that are

appropriate to the site context and anticipated

user demands, and consider ongoing maintenance

requirements. Paved or other sealed surfaces may

be appropriate in built up, heavily trafficked areas.

Natural surfaces may be more appropriate in more

natural contexts.

• Explore opportunities for incorporating other

infrastructure requirements (e.g. gross pollutant

traps) into the trail design process.

• Don’t over-engineer: stick to the trail classification

and consider the needs of the user, minimise

visual intrusion by keeping structures, earthworks,

vegetation clearance, trail widths, signage, etc to

a minimum.

• Incorporate a sense of place into the design. Reflect

the unique features and character of an area by using

local materials, interpreting the history of the area,

public art, signage, furniture, etc.

7.8 U R BA N T R A I L SGiven their location within densely populated areas,

urban trails are usually heavily utilised and valued by a

range of user groups for a range of reasons. Generally

shared- use, urban trails often cater for cyclists, walkers,

joggers, in-line skaters and the mobility impaired. Urban

trails are usually of regional significance and provide

inter-suburban travel opportunities for commuting,

recreational or tourism purposes. They also play an

important role in local trail networks by providing

access for local users travelling shorter trips for a

variety of reasons.

Given the range, fitness levels and number of users

that are likely to be attracted to an urban trail, safety

considerations take on greater importance. Similarly,

access for a wider range of user groups, including those

with mobility impairments, is likely to have a greater

influence on the design of the trail than would be the

case in a remote area such as the Flinders Ranges.

With this in mind, it is important that urban trails

are designed in accordance with recognised traffic

engineering standards and that special consideration is

given to:

• Trail surface: Bitumen is often the most suitable

surface for heavily utilised shared- use trails as it

provides an even and durable pathway which can be

easily repaired. The sub-surface should be suitably

prepared in order to minimise cracking over time.

• Trail width: A minimum 3m wide trail is

recommended for a heavily used trail in order to

minimise the chance of conflict between users. Such

a width is especially important if the trail is used by

cyclists for commuting and where pedestrians and

cyclists commonly travel in both directions. Line

marking should also be considered to separate users

travelling in opposite directions (see Photo 16).

• Safety: Urban trails are often used by young children

learning to ride as well as parents with prams. The

design of the trail should take into account the likely

inexperience and vulnerability of some users by

considering ‘worst case scenarios’. Steeply sloping

trails located near creeks and lakes should be

avoided or carefully addressed with specific design

solutions. Similarly, blind corners which can obscure

views of oncoming, fast-moving cyclists should be

avoided. Special consideration should be given to the

safety aspects of bridges, boardwalks and sections

of the trail located on elevated land. Access for

emergency vehicles such as ambulances should also

be provided.

• Lighting: It may be appropriate to light some

sections of the trail, especially in close proximity

to areas which people congregate at night such as

shopping centres and large reserves (see Photo 17).

Other measures should be adopted to improve the

safety of users such as removing thick vegetation

close to the trail behind which people can hide and

maintaining clear and open lines of sight.

• Signage: A signage strategy should be developed

to clearly mark the trail, inform users of their

responsibilities and identify interpretation

opportunities (see Photo 18).

• Interface with traffic: Any point where the trail

crosses a public road or interacts with traffic must

be designed carefully and in accordance with

recognised engineering standards. Road crossings

Photo 15: Coastal trail


49



are the responsibility of either the local Council or the

Department for Transport, Energy and Infrastructure.

• Provision of facilities: The location, size and design

of facilities associated with urban trails are important

considerations. People will be more likely to use the

trail if well-designed facilities such as parking areas,

seating placed at regular intervals, toilets and picnic

areas are provided. Where possible, use should be

made of existing facilities.

• Environmental: Urban trails are often located in

environmentally degraded areas such as alongside

weed invested creeks. While the construction of the

trail may be the catalyst to achieve environmental

rehabilitation, it is important than an ongoing

maintenance regime is established. This should

include the regular slashing and removal of weeds,

revegetation initiatives and the monitoring of

water quality.

Austroads Guide to Traffic Engineering Practice – Part

14 – Bicycles, provides guidelines for road authorities,

engineers, planners and designers involved in the

planning and construction of cycling facilities. It is

strongly recommended that this document be used

as a key reference when designing shared-use trails in

urban areas.

Urban trails provide an excellent opportunity to

encourage greater recreational activity amongst the

general community. To ensure that this happens, urban

trails should be planned to link residential areas with

key attractions such as a major reserve, recreation

and sport facilities, or a shopping precinct. In addition,

the route should be designed to highlight interesting

environmental and other attractions that may be within

the locality. Urban trails should also, where possible,

provide an alternative mode of transport for those

wishing to commute to work. Other opportunities

to increase the use of the trail should be considered

including the installation of public art such as sculptures

or murals (see Photo 19).

By linking the trail to other initiatives, such as the

environmental improvement of an area, it may be

possible to broaden the suite of funding opportunities

available to the trail. The promotion of associated

environmental benefits may also encourage other

community groups to get involved in the construction

and maintenance of the trails.

7.9 S I G N A G EAs described in Section 7.3, AS 2156.1 - 2001 Walking

Tracks: Classification and Signage provides a

classification system for walking tracks. The Standard

also provides guidance on the design, fabrication and

use of trail markers, and information signs to be used

for walking trails.

7.9.1 TRAIL MARKERS

In relation to trail markers, the key recommendations of

AS 21.56.1 – 2001 are that:

• Directional arrows should be positioned on a square

background of a minimum of 90mm by 90mm.

Photo 16: Urban trails should have an appropriate width, obvious signage and clear lines of sight around corners

Photo 17: Lighting should be considered in heavily used sections of the trail

Photo 18: Signage should incorporate interpretive information

Photo 19: Public art along a

shared-use trail


50



• Directional arrows should either be at ninety or

forty-five degree angles only.

• Trail markers should be designed for durability and

should be made of either aluminium alloy (at least

1.6mm thick) or galvanised steel (at least 1mm thick).

• Markers should have a reflective finish to assist with

night-time identification and should be of a colour

that is clearly visible within the landscape while also

considering the effects of weathering (e.g. blue,

yellow, orange and red).

• The intervals at which trail markers are placed should

be in accordance with trail classification and local

site conditions such as vegetation, topography and

weather.

• Trail markers should be placed at a consistent height

above ground (between 0-2 metres) and should

relate to topographical conditions.

It is very important that trail markers are clearly visible

from the point of view of the trail user. The dimensions

and colours of directional arrows as well as the

installation height and frequency of markers should be

designed to ensure that trail users are easily able to find

their way. This is equally applicable in both urban and

rural settings. DEWNR and ForestrySA have adopted

a style of trail marker which meets the requirements

of AS 2156.1 – 2001 and have presented direction and

information based on the Australian Walking Track

Grading System while also providing an opportunity

to include an organisational logo, trail name and

description of user groups (see Photo 20).

7.9.2 INFORMATION (INTERPRETATION

AND EDUCATION) SIGNS

AS 2156.1 – 2001 also provides guidance on the design

of signs which provide information in relation to

advisory notes, description of the trail, interpretation

of attractions, relevant regulations and warnings. More

commonly known as interpretive or education signs

(see Section 8.5), information signs are an essential

element of trail design and, while they should be

individually tailored to suit the particular purpose and

geographical circumstances of the trail, should include

information about:

• required equipment and safety precautions (e.g.

footwear, hat, water supply, etc.)

• the classification of the trail and a description of the

experience and fitness level required to enjoy the

trail safely

• distance and estimated completion time for the trail

(including whether it is one-way or return)

• topographical and climatic conditions that should be

considered prior to departure

• availability of facilities such as toilets

• opening and closing times of the trail

• the overall route of the trail (e.g. maps at the trail

head and at key locations)

• environmental and cultural sensitivities such as

habitat areas and places of Aboriginal significance

• dangerous places, obstacles and other elements

along or adjoining the trail

• appropriate trail behaviour.

Reference should also be made to Guidelines for

Producing Trail Signage9 to assist in preparing and

implementing an appropriate signage strategy for

90

mm

220

mm

90mm

100mm

Trail marker plate is attachedto a 120mm x 120mm post

The other main options used to mark trails –direction arrows should be at either 90° or 45°

Photo 20: ForestrySA trail marker

Photo 21: Interpretive sign

9 Prepared by Greg Drew, Craig Grocke and Peter Cahalan for

SA Tourism Commission and Recreation Trails Signage and

Interpretation Working Group 2003, updated 2016.


51



a particular trail. The types of signs covered by the

document include those intended to provide direction

to users, interpretation of the trail and/or surrounding

attributes, and to assist with management of the

trail. DEWNR and other public land managers have

developed their own standards for sign production

based on Australian Walking Track Grading System

and the IMBA trail difficulty rating system and

corporate requirements.

Austroads: Guide to Traffic Engineering Practice

Part 14 – Bicycles - also provides nationally agreed

specifications for road and off-road bicycle paths.

These standards are applicable to an urban context

and are particularly relevant where trails intersect road

crossings. Consultation with Local or State Authorities

will be required in these situations.

7.10 OTHER FACILITIES

It may be necessary to provide various support facilities

for trail users. These needs will vary depending on the

nature of the trail, the user group(s), and the location

of the trail. If possible, it may be preferable to align the

trail so that it connects with already existing facilities

to avoid duplication and additional costs. Generally

these facilities should be located at control points.

Importantly, many facilities associated with recreational

trails will require the approval of the relevant planning

authority (usually the local Council) as well as the

land owner.

Parking facilities for cars and horse floats may need

to be provided at the trail head. If so, the range of

considerations will include:

• the expected volume of traffic likely to be generated

at peak periods

• safe and convenient access from the adjoining road

network, as well as suitable circulation space

• surface preparation of the car parking area to

minimise runoff, dust, and boggy conditions

• landscaping to minimise the visual impact.

Watering points and drinking water may need to be

provided, particularly for horse trails. The Friends of the

Heysen Trail have constructed a range of water shelters

across the 1200 kilometres of the trail particularly

where water is limited. It may be necessary to consider

providing rainwater tanks, which collect runoff from

shelters or other structures. It is important to consider

the ongoing maintenance requirements if such facilities

are provided to ensure a reliable, all-year water supply.

It is also important to note that the Safe Drinking Water

Act 2011 and Safe Drinking Water Regulations 2012

commenced on 1 March 2013. Small supplies derived

from rainwater tanks in low risk premises such as

camping grounds and recreational areas are exempt

from the regulations but to be safe most agencies

provide signs advising that before drinking tank water

should be boiled or treated before use.

Any shelters provided should be designed, sited

and constructed to minimise their visual impact and

minimise ongoing maintenance requirements. The

shelter could double as a location for interpretive or

directional signage (see Photos 24 and 25).

Photo 22: Combined

interpretive and trail head sign

Photo 23:

Trail marker

Photo 24: Trail head with shelter and interpretive information

Photo 25: Shelter and interpretive facility


52



7.10.1 TOILETS

The provision of toilet facilities should, generally,

relate to the anticipated number of users of the trail

and its proximity to urban areas or other recreational

and tourist attractions. Preferably, toilets should be

provided at trail heads, which, in an urban setting, are

often ideally located at a larger reserve containing

other structured and unstructured recreational

facilities (see photo 16). In rural settings, trail heads

which are located within townships, settlements,

visitor information centres or other tourist attractions

provide an opportunity to take advantage of existing

toilet facilities. Where new toilet facilities are required,

the visual impact of structures, standards for toilet

design, access for maintenance, and the proximity of

to watercourses should be considered. Approvals for

toilets will and their associated waste treatment system

will be required from the local Council and/or the

SA Health.

http://www.health.sa.gov.au/pehs/publications/code-

sanitation.pdf

7.10.2 CAMPING

Camping facilities may be justified on long distance

trails such as the Heysen and Mawson Trails.

Development Approval from the local Council may be

required for camping areas, particularly if the facility

includes buildings and structures. Factors to consider in

planning for such facilities will include:

• minimising visual impacts

• the need for level ground that drains well

• the need for vehicular access by maintenance crew

or emergency services

• whether the levels of usage or local climatic

conditions along the trail justify the provision of huts

or shelters

• the potential for vandalism of camping areas and

associated facilities

• the need for associated facilities such as toilets,

water, fire pits, horse yards, etc. If facilities are not

provided at camping areas (particularly water and

toilets), this should be clearly stated on any relevant

signage, maps or promotional material associated

with the trail

• distances between camping areas: typically,

distances between camping areas will be

determined by the terrain of the trail, availability of

existing infrastructure and the location of townships

or attractions along the route.

Rest spots and tie up rails may be justified for horse

riders. It’s preferable to provide such facilities where

large numbers of users are anticipated and to deter

tying horses to trees. Provide a space that will

adequately cater for anticipated demand otherwise

adjoining areas of vegetation could be used and

damaged as a result of overflow.

In some circumstances it may be necessary to install

physical structures to regulate access to and along

recreational trails. This could include situations where

the trail travels through farming land on which stock is

grazed or to prevent inappropriate access by motorised

vehicles. Measures to prevent undesirable access could

include the installation of stiles, step-overs, bollards

or gates.

7.10.3 PLANT DISEASES AND WEEDS

Areas that are infected by diseases such as

Phytophthora cinnamoni (PC) should be managed and

monitored by avoiding contact with and transfer of

affected soils and by implementing hygiene programs

to prevent its introduction and spreading.

It’s always preferable to locate trails away from affected

areas. If this isn’t possible, introduce measures such as

the use of boardwalks or modified trail surfaces, such

as rock and crushed gravel, to prevent soil transfer. It

may also be necessary to install hygiene stations for

the washing of shoes, bikes and horse hooves at key

locations such as entry and exit points (see Photo 27).

Provide information for trail users on adopting

appropriate hygiene practices at key locations using

the Department for Environment and Heritage PC

Management Guidelines10.

Photo 26: Toilet facility

10 www.environment.sa.gov.au/biodiversity/pdfs/

pc_management_guidelines.pdf


53



While Phylloxera is not found in South Australia,

a precautionar approach should be adopted and

trails should not pass through areas which may be

susceptible to the disease such as vineyards.

Because weeds thrive in disturbed soil, measures

should be taken during and following the construction

phase to prevent infestation. A vegetation restoration

and weed removal and management plan should be

prepared and implemented.

This might address issues such as:

• monitoring programs, possibly using photo points

• education of the trail builders on weed identification

and removal techniques

• weekly to monthly follow up procedures to

eradicate weeds

• Revegetation practices to out compete weeds and

add to trail amenity.

It may also be necessary to provide information to trail

users on appropriate hygiene practices to prevent the

spread of weeds.

Photo 27: Hygiene station


54



M A N A GE ME N T A ND M A IN T E N A NCE

8

8.1 INTRODUCTION

8.2 MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING AND PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENTS

8.3 TRAIL MAINTENANCE AND RISK ASSESSMENT SCHEDULES

8.4 CONFLICT MANAGEMENT

8.5 EDUCATION AND INTERPRETATION

8.6 MONITORING AND EVALUATION

8.7 MARKETING AND PROMOTION

8.8 PREPARING PROMOTIONAL MATERIAL AND MAPS

55



8.1 I N T R O D U C T I O NIdeally, during (or even before) the construction

program, a Trail Management Plan should be prepared,

incorporating elements covered in this chapter as

well as broader land management policies and trail

management issues. Such a document – as with all

management plans – should be both flexible and

responsive to change, and yet set a firm guiding outline

for future directions and priorities. Trails which don’t

have a Management Plan suffer from decisions taken

on the run, out of context or as knee-jerk responses to

critical situations.

Such a plan should include the following elements as

a minimum:

• philosophical background to trail development

• a statement of guiding principles (trail classification,

category, etc.)

• trail construction and maintenance ‘standards’

• target user groups and user experiences

• risk management policy

• hazard inspection timetable

• promotional and interpretation policy

• group usage policy and guidelines

• annual trail maintenance program

• clarification of management roles and responsibilities

• promotional mapping and brochures: guiding

principles

• bushfire action plan and procedures

• Emergency evacuation procedures.

A timetable and process for reviewing and updating

this Plan should be set, with annual reviews and three

(or five) year updates recommended.

The Plan must outline a professional program

of management and must clearly define who is

responsible for what. In many cases trail projects

involve a number of land managers and it is therefore

crucial that all organisations know and agree what their

role and responsibility is.

8.2 M E M O R A N D U M O F U N D E R S TA N D I N G A N D PA RT N E R S H I P A G R E E M E N T S

Trail projects inevitably involve a range of partners.

These could include:

• Local Government (if not already the primary land

manager)

• State or Federal Government Departments

• conservation and environmental groups: both state

and local

• other user groups or potential user groups, including

‘peak bodies’

• education institutions, including local schools or

universities

• training agencies (Green Army, etc.)

• volunteer groups (Service clubs, Green Corps,

Conservation Volunteers Australia, Seniors groups,

‘Friends of Trails’ groups etc.)

• health agencies, including the Heart Foundation.

With so many potential partners it is crucial to establish

clearly the different roles and responsibilities involved

in the trail. An agreement should be drafted which

identifies:

• who is legally responsible for the trail assets

• the tasks likely to be involved in the future

management of the trail

• the capabilities and capacities of each group

(specific skills, construction assistance, administration

time, fund management, etc.)

• constraints and limitations involved (lack of skills,

resource shortages, statutory responsibilities, etc.)

• roles (such as tool manager; maintenance

coordinator; brochure distributor, etc.)

• how ‘gaps’ are going to be filled.

8 . 0 M A N A G E M E N T A N D M A I N T E N A N C E

56



8.3 T R A I L M A I N T E N A N C E A N D R I S K A S S E S S M E N T S C H E D U L E S

Ongoing trail maintenance is a crucial component of

an effective management program. Depending on

a swathe of conditions such as slope, weather, soil

types, construction standards and usage patterns, trail

maintenance cost can be significant. Trails are also

subject to natural event such as floods, fire which can

destroy trails or infrastructure. Government agencies

are reluctant to take on any more responsibility for

new assets and often look to rationalising assets.

Community organizations that wish to take on trails

need to consider the financial risks associated with

developing trails.

Future maintenance demands can be reduced however

through considered planning, quality construction and

an effective management plan incorporating a regular

maintenance program. AS 2156.1-2001 Walking Tracks –

Classification and Signage provides guidelines for the

maintenance of walking trails by specifying inspection

intervals based on each classification.

Maintenance on trails can generally be divided between

regular inspections and simple repairs, largely a one

(or two) person job, and (say) twice yearly programs

undertaking larger jobs such as significant erosion

repairs or weed control. The former task is ideally

suited to well-trained and regular volunteer programs,

while the latter can either be a volunteer under skilled

supervision, or a job for the land manager’s staff

or contractors.

On many, if not most trails, regrowth vegetation,

damage to signage and accumulation of leaf litter

and debris are likely to be the most common

maintenance activities.

Providing these issues are attended to early they are

largely labour intensive rather than capital expensive.

Resourcing such an ongoing program is crucial, and

funds (or volunteers) will be required on an ongoing

basis to enable this essential maintenance work to

take place. This matter should be addressed in the

overall structure of the trail manager’s budget and its

recurrent funding.

Crucial in the ongoing management program will be

the Hazard Inspection process. Not only will this play

an obvious part in defining maintenance activities

and/or management decisions, it will be vital in

dealing with any liability claim which may arise in the

future. The identification of hazards, the controls in

place and treatments (risk management audit) is an

integral process to trail management. Annual reviews

are desirable.

Hazard/Risk Inspection should be linked to the trail

classification recognising the abilities and expectations

of the of the users of the trail e.g. a class one walking

trail will require a higher duty of care that a class

four trail.

A typical maintenance schedule might include:

TASK FREQUENCY

Checking trail head and

other facilities for damage

or vandalism

Monthly if possible

Checking all signage and

trail marking and replacing

any missing

Two monthly at

a minimum or

damaged signs

Clearing and/or repairing

erosion control devices and

other

Three monthly

erosion/water issues

(monthly if possible)

Checking and clearing

all trail surfaces,

especially regrowth

Annually, in spring

(or when vegetation

dry enough) at least

Pruning trail-side and

overhanging vegetation

Annually

Checking major structures,

such as bridges, boardwalks

and walkways

Annually

Arranging a regular Hazard

Inspection Report

Annually

Checking currency and

distribution of trail brochure

and updating when necessary

Annually

Annual maintenance costs can be kept at a minimum

by ensuring that inspection and works programs stay

on schedule.

Risk management assessment (in accordance with

AS 4360-2004 Risk Management) should be applied

to the wider range of trail risks including asset

management, human resources, financial resources,

OHS, communication, and contract management.


57



8.4 C O N F L I C T M A N A G E M E N TMost on-trail conflict develops when information is

inadequate. Sometimes conflict can occur between

legitimate users, while on other occasions it may be

between the legitimate user group or groups and

‘illegal’ users. In both cases, information and education

are the key tools for trail managers.

Single-use trails should be clearly signposted as such at

all access points. Brochures, maps and media material

should also reinforce the message that this is a single-

use trail. It is extremely helpful to explain why this is

the case. For example, it may be that the trail passes

through land that has limitations on access due to its

tenure, or the nature of the environment or the trail

design itself may preclude some users.

The design of the trail can also assist in managing

unwanted user groups. Bear in mind that conflict may

occur with users from beyond the common trail user

groups such as trail bikes or four-wheel drives. Seek

support from trail partners in managing these issues,

and use the media to publicise the impacts such usage

is having.

Shared-use trails should have built-in the provision

of adequate information during the planning phase.

Common guidelines should be developed for ‘who

gives way to whom’ on shared use trails. Signage

and information reinforcing these rules of trail

etiquette should be prominent on the trail and in any

public information.

If conflict develops, it is worth getting the different

groups together to talk about their issues. It may be

that the conflict is identifying some weakness in the trail

design. Each group should help find potential solutions.

8.5 E D U C AT I O N A N D I N T E R P R E TAT I O N

Trails present outstanding opportunities for education

and interpretation. People involved in enjoyable choice-

driven activities are open to learning, or at least to

being informed.

It is important to review the philosophical under-

pinnings to the trail: who is it there for and what kind

of experience is it seeking to provide? This will help

define what level of education and interpretation is

appropriate on the trail. For example, a mountain bike

trail built primarily as a fun (recreational) experience

may not warrant the same level or style of education

and interpretation as a more gentle trail (perhaps a

walk trail) passing through a stand of high-value native

forest. Who is the market and what will they absorb?

To separate education from interpretation it could,

perhaps, be said that education is about supplying

the information which needs to get across, while

interpretation is about providing information which is

desirable to share. Educational messages could include:

• user etiquette or shared-use information

• minimal impact messages: both general and

trail-specific

• specific local land management issues

• other specific guidelines for trail behaviour.

Education is about the user’s interaction with and

impact on the trail, its surrounds and the other users. Be

clear, be direct, make no assumptions, but do be tactful.

Use signage for short sharp clear statements (use

symbols where possible) and use brochures or panels

for more complex messages that take time to read and

absorb. Generally, keep it simple (see Photo 28).

Interpretation, on the other hand, often takes a quite

different tack, seeking to engage and entertain in

addition to informing. But what is interpretation?

The definition provided by Freeman Tilden is useful11:

I N T E R P R E TAT I O N F O R G E S E M OT I O N A L A N D I N T E L L E C T UA L C O N N E C T I O N S B E T W E E N T H E I N T E R E S T S O F T H E A U D I E N C E A N D T H E I N H E R E N T M E A N I N G S I N T H E R E S O U R C E .

And no longer should interpretation be considered an

optional add-on. Interpretation is increasingly seen as

an integral part of nature-based experiences:

N O L O N G E R A R E V I S I TO R S C O N T E N T W I T H J U S T ‘ S E E I N G ’ T H E S I G H T S . 2 1 S T C E N T U RY “ TO U R I S T S ” WA N T I N VO LV E M E N T. T H E Y WA N T TO E X P E R I E N C E A N D K N OW T H E M E A N I N G S O F W H AT T H E Y A R E S E E I N G 12.

Photo 28: Education sign

11 Freeman Tilden, Interpreting Our Heritage, 1957

12 Innovation in Interpretation, Tourism Queensland, 2000


58



Interpretation reveals the meanings and relationships of

the cultural and natural heritage to visitors (trail users),

through first hand experiences with objects, artefacts,

landscapes, and sites. Interpretation tells the tales

of the land, past activities and land uses, its people,

animals and plants, and in the telling, helps people form

connections with both the place itself and its heritage.

Interpretation can take the form of static panels,

brochures, guide books, audio stories or guided

experiences. Most trail projects focus on the ‘classic’

forms of delivering stories: panels, brochures and guide

books. Delivering successful interpretation is quite an

art form and specific skills are required. The siting of

interpretive signs and structures is very important also:

inappropriate siting can detract from the very thing that

is being highlighted.

8.6 M O N I TO R I N G A N D E VA L UAT I O NTrails change with time as do trail users experiences

and expectations. Some changes to the physical trail

are obvious, and will be noticed either by users or as

part of the regular maintenance program. Some are less

obvious and may not be noticed until they become an

issue. The process of change can be quite subtle and,

given that it can occur over extended time periods, can

be hard to notice.

Through effective monitoring and evaluation the trail

manager may consider changing the classification of

the trail based on user comment and demand.

Keeping accurate records is an important component of

any monitoring program. This will include talking to trail

users. They will know what problems are developing

and where. Mechanisms to encourage feedback from

trail users should be developed.

This could include:

• the erection of signs encouraging feedback via

telephone numbers and email addresses

• a website or social media where users can log on and

report issues

• phone numbers on brochures and maps.

It is also important to evaluate a trail project to

determine the impact that the trail is having on the

surrounding environment, its neighbours and on the

surrounding community. Impacts might be positive

(reduction in unmanaged access into fragile areas;

heightened awareness of ecological issues, etc.) or they

might be negative (increased vandalism; increased

numbers of users above the capacity of the original trail

design, etc.).

Ideally, a program of monitoring and evaluation should

be built into the planning phase for the trail. Many grant

funding agencies will respond positively to the inclusion

of such a program as it gives them reassurance that the

future is of the trail will be considered and reported on.

8.7 M A R K E T I N G A N D P R O M OT I O NTrail users are likely to come from two key groups:

those living locally, who can access the trail directly

or almost directly from home, and those living further

a-field (usually in the city) who will travel to the area

to use the trail (or to use the trail as part of a broader

visiting experience).

If the majority of trail users are likely to come from

beyond the immediate community, the following steps

should be considered to encourage greater visitation:

• Develop a promotional brochure, guide, map for the

trail (see Section 8.8).

• Ensure the new promotional material (brochure and/

or map) is distributed to all major visitor information

centres in the region.

• Deliver brochures to all clubs, groups and other

relevant activity associations.

• Develop a list of all outdoor related magazines and

newsletters and attempting to have each carry at

least one story about the new trail. (Local media

outlets should be approached regularly with press

releases too).

• Ensure that the trail head(s) is/are clearly signposted

and marked on relevant maps, so that users coming

in from outlying areas can find it/them easily.

• Organise an event or activity which may attract the

attention of the major State daily newspaper, and

arrange for a story and photo shoot, ideally aimed at

the Saturday magazine.

• Ensure that organised events are publicised in any

relevant calendar(s) of outdoor activities.

• Plan an ‘opening’ event for when significant sections

of trail construction are complete; having someone

high profile officiate, and ensuring that a good press

release goes out.


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If, on the other hand, trail users are expected to be

mainly local people, the following list of potential

actions (in addition to, or instead of those above)

should be considered:

• Deliver a copy of a trail brochure to all households

within a comfortable distance from any point of

the trail.

• Ensure the brochure is widely distributed to local

relevant retail outlets.

• Prepare a press release for local papers at least

once a year relating to the trail, and encourage

local papers to come out and take a photograph.

Releases could relate to the construction program, to

an annual maintenance weekend or busy bee, to an

organised group event on the trails, or to any other

activity or event relating to the trails.

• Organise an annual ‘event’ on the trail – perhaps a

complete ride or walk of the route – and publicise it

locally through local papers and radio.

• Publicise the scheduled maintenance activities.

• Form a ‘Friends of...’ group, and undertake

maintenance activities and fun walks/rides, especially

for young people and new residents.

If tourists are likely to be a key user group, local

accommodation outlets and those agencies promoting

general visitation to the area should be involved in the

promotion of the trail. The trail should be promoted

as an integral part of the regional visitor experience,

and should be woven into those other products which

attract people to the area. Developing this integrated

approach to marketing may well return greater benefits

than any means of promoting the trail itself.

8.8 P R E PA R I N G P R O M OT I O N A L M AT E R I A L A N D M A P S

Promotional material such as brochures and maps

should be professionally prepared and designed, and

should be printed in an attractive format, pleasing to

the eye yet still simple to read. Generally they should

have most, if not all, of the following features:

• maps which are clear and concise with distances,

topographical features, scale bar, north point, legend,

contours and other annotations

• trail notes, describing key points along the way and

relating them to distances and directions

• background information about the trail, and the

history of the area

• educational information about trail usage, safety

and etiquette

• interpretive information about culture, history,

geography and environmental matters

• information about management and maintenance,

including phone numbers for reporting any trail

related matters

• emergency contact details and directions

• clear indication of routes to and from the trail head

and parking areas, and guidance on the use of

this area

• trail code of practice.

Written material should be aimed at a 12 year old

level of education and only cover one concept per

sentence. In addition, spelling, graphics and images

should always be double-checked prior to going

to print. When preparing promotional material, it is

worthwhile reviewing existing brochures and maps from

visitor information centres to identify their strengths

and weaknesses.

Promotional material and maps should be produced

at either A4 or A3, printed both sides, and folded to

DL (standard envelope) size. They should be produced

in at least two colours and professionally printed. Per

item printing costs reduce dramatically as print runs

grow larger (printing 2,000 to 5,000 usually ensures

a reasonably low unit cost) but trails do change and

brochures need to be updated: so it is important not to

print too many and having to throw out a substantial

number of left-overs. Where available, include an

electronic copy which can be downloaded from a

home computer.

In summary, promotional material and maps must

be professionally prepared (see Appendix F for an

example of a promotional brochure prepared for the

Riesling Trail). They should be articulate, enjoyable

to read, easy to follow, informative, educational and

should inspire confidence in being able to follow the

trail route. Promotional material is often the primary

point of contact with trail users and it should be at least

as good as the trail itself. There is no more certain way

of condemning a trail to an uncertain future than by

producing a sub-standard brochure or map.


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C A SE S T UDIE S

9

9.1 INTRODUCTION

9.2 CASE STUDY 1:

FLINDERS RANGES BY BIKE

9.3 CASE STUDY 2:

TOM ROBERTS HORSE TRAIL

9.4 CASE STUDY 3:

UNMADE ROAD RESERVES AS TRAIL CORRIDORS

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9.1 I N T R O D U C T I O NThis chapter contains three case studies which seek

to demonstrate some of the challenges involved in the

planning, construction and management of recreational

trails. The first case study ‘Flinders Ranges by Bike’ has

been written by Craig Grocke from the South Australian

Tourism Commission and explains the driving force

behind the trail and explains some of the experiences

and lessons that were learnt during the planning phase

of this exciting project.

The second case study was written by Julie Fiedler

from Horse SA and describes the lengthy and often

frustrating process involved in the planning and

construction of the Tom Roberts Horse Trail. The third

case study was prepared by Anthea Shem of the Office

for Recreation & Sport. It describes the process involved

in converting an un-made road into a recreational trail.

9.2 C A S E S T U DY 1 : F L I N D E R S R A N G E S B Y B I K E

BACKGROUND

For visitors to South Australia, the Flinders Ranges

is an iconic destination that has a landscape unique

from other destinations in Australia. This point of

differentiation is normally appreciated by day walks and

camping expeditions by four wheel drive groups but

rarely by the soft adventure market who seek a level of

comfort, service or equipment support.

With local pastoralists facing a decline in income from

wool and growing pressure to reduce the impact of

grazing in areas with high conservation value, the need

to diversify into ‘sustainable tourism’ is a key driver

behind the ‘Flinders Ranges by Bike’ trail.

Tourism is not new to the area, however there was a

need to tap into new markets and create better use

of farm assets, such as renovated shearer’s quarters

and homesteads, to add value to traditional farm gate

activities. Diversifying local tourism product also helps

to disperse short-term and day visitors from high

volume and high impact locations to multi-day, low

impact locations across a broader geographical area.

This was one strategy for developing a more sustainable

tourism industry through regional trail development.

The South Australian Tourism Commission (SATC) was

a project sponsor providing grant funding and human

resources to help facilitate the development of the

business opportunity, which includes project feasibility,

infrastructure and product development support, and

targeted market research on soft adventure tourism.

For the SATC, this new trail experience could be

packaged and delivered by a local operator, from bike

hire, accommodation, meals, logistical support and

destination transport, all which had appeal for the

inbound travel trade who had clients interested in active

holidays and discovering unique parts of Australia.

DESCRIPTION OF THE TRAIL

The ‘Flinders Ranges by Bike’ trail is a 200km loop

trail for mountain bikes and is located in the Central

Flinders Ranges, approximately five hours drive north

of Adelaide. The trail experience is four days and four

nights and captures the grand landscapes, big sky and

peaceful isolation of the Flinders Ranges.

The trail route uses old pastoral station tracks that

traverse the Flinders Ranges National Park and five

pastoral properties, and a section of the Mawson Trail

to link accommodation, attractions and visitor services.

The geology, vegetation, scenic views and the trail

condition vary from one kilometre to another just like

the points of accommodation. Nothing is ever the same

on this off-road journey.

Photo 29: The ABC and Heysen Range (Photo courtesy of SA Tourism Commission)

Photo 30: Mawson Trail at Rawnsley Park (Photo courtesy of SA Tourism Commission)

9 . 0 C A S E S T U D I E S

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BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES

For the landowners and land managers, forming the

trail was a business opportunity, and privately managed

and guided mountain bike trails could offer the middle

to mature aged soft adventure/discoverer market a

more catered trail experience with a degree of privacy

and exclusivity. The project is effectively a public/

private partnership created to build and manage

trails by developing them as a sustainable tourism

product. The fees charged to use the trail cover the

management, maintenance and marketing of the trail

and associated trail infrastructure. This is essential,

as while it may be easy to get capital funding for

developing new trails, the ongoing maintenance costs

become the biggest issue and potential liability for the

land manager.

The primary challenge in developing the trail was

gaining a commitment from each landowner to

allow trail access and be part of an Incorporated

Association to manage the trail and visitors who use

it. Most pastoralists tend to operate as individual small

businesses and the idea of working together in a

cooperative arrangement creates challenges in defining

how the business operates, such as:

• how fees are charged and disbursements are made

for providing services to visitors

• agreeing on the style of trail markers and location of

trail infrastructure

• developing a logo and brand or image for the trail

• formulating marketing and product development

strategies

• deciding on whether to allow ‘guided’ versus ‘self

guided’ visitors

• sorting out matters such as public liability insurance

• setting up a constitution for members of the

association, particularly voting rights and

membership categories.

STEPS TAKEN TO GET STARTED

In establishing the trail, the first important step after

agreeing in principle to the concept was finding a

route that has appeal, safe access, some challenges

and forms a loop trail to improve the logistics of travel

operations. Basically they needed to have the physical

links (a defined route) as well and a suitable topography

to make it worth driving five hours to use the trail.

The second challenge was agreeing to a business

structure with a business plan that served the

objectives of each stakeholder. This includes a structure

to best deal with marketing, visitor management, asset

management and the one matter of most concern:

public liability insurance. Time was spent drafting

a constitution, which included the organisation’s

objectives, membership, meeting procedures and

reporting requirements. It was during this process that

it was agreed to begin using a local tour operator to

provide a guided experience, at least until the business

had matured and ironed out any operational matters.

This also gave landholders confidence that visitors were

being looked after and not getting lost: something that

could be time absorbing in a semi-remote area like the

Flinders Ranges.

The third important step was developing a name and

brand for the cycle experience. Here it was important

to not only think about the type of experience and

the target market, but also how it would complement

other local tourism products and regional marketing

collateral.

The fourth step was the process of developing product

information (maps, guidebooks, website, etc), which

required research, collation of ideas, discussion on the

right balance of ‘content’ and ‘branding’ and eventually

investment in the design and production of the material.

Along side this was the infrastructure development,

primarily route markers and gates at boundary fences.

Secondary infrastructure such as shelters and water

tanks would be considered ‘down the track’ once the

business was established and proven viable.

Photo 31: Reedy Creek Track, Willow Springs (Photo courtesy of SA Tourism Commission)


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THINGS TO REMEMBER IN DEVELOPING A TRAIL

FOR CYCLE TOURISM

SOFT ADVENTURE MARKET

When servicing the ‘soft adventure’ market, having

quality accommodation, good logistical support,

modern and well maintained equipment, and concise

visitor information from a central query/ booking

point is important in capturing the target market. The

customer purchase process in particular has to be

simple and responsive because the Association knew

from research that they were dealing with an ‘online

consumer’ who doesn’t want to fuss around with

finding answers to simple questions.

VISITOR MANAGEMENT

The landholders involved with the ‘Flinders Ranges

By Bike’ were realistic that the trail is one minor farm

activity and most of their time is still spent managing

other farm activities. So the business operation had

to be structured to operate around the needs of the

landowner’s primary business as well as considering

the needs of visitors. This can mean closing the trail

when shearing occurs, or during summer when heat

exhaustion is a serious visitor risk. It also means

educating visitors about leaving gates as they are

found and not polluting dams or springs which are

essential watering points for stock and wildlife. While

tourists need to be managed they can also be an asset

in helping to report injured stock or a broken pump at a

water hole.

The primary concern for trail users is route markers

and the ease of navigation without having to pull

out and study a map. This is where the design and

location of route markers is critical to way finding and

is the first point of criticism on any trail. Following

Australian Standards will help to maintain a consistent

and nationally agreed sign system and address risk

management requirements. It is also a good suggestion

to systematically number each marker post, in

numerical order, to help sequential navigation but also

as a geographical reference point if help is needed.

MARKETING, PROMOTION AND PACKAGING

‘Flinders Ranges by Bike’ is a soft adventure trail

experience that you purchase like a tour package.

One fee covers all costs and having a clearly defined

‘package’ that is consistent and meets the expectations

created by marketing activities is very important.

In terms of marketing, the trail itself is not what should

be marketed but rather the experience. Of course

visitors still want to know how long, how hard, how well

marked the trail is to qualify if they have the skill and

fitness level to complete the trail.

However, aside from a cycling challenge, visitors want

a variety of experiences and in the case of ‘Flinders

Ranges by Bike’, it’s the views, staying on different

properties, wondering through a big ancient landscape,

socializing with friends and relaxing in comfort at the

end of the day, that has the greatest appeal.

The trail is a link between destination points and

the mountain bike is the ‘vehicle’ for the experience.

Together they offer an active holiday with a sense

of adventure and achievement. Something visitors

will promote by word of mouth when they go home.

This will always be the best promotional tool and the

primary reason for having a guidebook because it helps

the visitor communicate their experience with friends

when they get home, and they are the next potential

customers to focus on.

Research into ‘soft adventure’ suggests two clear

markets for the ‘Flinders Ranges by Bike’ experience.

The first are the ‘mainstream’ visitors who occasionally

cycle and have a good level of fitness as well as a sense

of adventure. However, they prefer to be guided in

semi-remote areas that they are not familiar with. This

market is looking to hire a bike or use an operator that

provides equipment and like the idea of the logistics

being sorted out for them. They are the instant ‘pay

and play’ consumer who doesn’t want to bother about

trip planning and being self-sufficient. They tend to

book an experience using a reputable guide and often

the quality of the guide (a wards, accreditation and

recommendations) will drive the final decision to book

or not.

The second market is ‘enthusiasts’ who are keen

cyclists, very fit, and have and prefer to bring all their

own equipment. They appreciate logistical support

but they don’t want to be guided ever step of the

way because a sense of freedom and discovery is a

very important part of their experience. Having their

gear transported, food supplied and maps provided,

is often welcomed but they are seeking some free and

independent travel and prefer to just participate with

immediate friends.

The prime difference in these two market segments

is the level of guiding preferred by participants. This

is very important to recognize when marketing to

each segment.


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Information in marketing material needs to clearly

define products and packages to suit each of these two

market segments.

9.3 C A S E S T U DY 2 : TO M R O B E RT S H O R S E T R A I L

This trail network, unique in South Australia, provides

a community asset for horse riders in the City of

Onkaparinga and surrounding districts. Fostered by the

Horse Owners of the Southern Mount Lofty Ranges,

Horse SA now also partners this project. The first

section was opened in 1993 at Blackwood Hill Reserve,

with the Cherry Gardens section a few months later.

Community volunteers have provided, and continue to,

provide many hours of service to this project.

BACKGROUND

In 1993 the City of Onkaparinga gave in-principle

approval to the implementation of the Tom Roberts

Horse Trail Network. The Network was one of the key

projects to emerge from both ‘Planning Study No 4

– Equestrian Facilities Study 1985’ and the efforts of

the Hills Horse Action Group. This group first met in

1983 and later became the Happy Valley Horse Owners

Association Inc in 1989 (more recently changing their

name to the Horse Owners Association of the Southern

Mount Lofty Ranges Inc.).

The network was an attempt to formalise existing

routes used by horse riders and their horses with the

aim of improving safety for horse riders, motorists,

cyclists and pedestrians, and to encourage travelling on

delineated routes.

The network plan was developed by the Happy Valley

Horse Owners Association (HVHOA) in conjunction

with the then Department of Recreation and Sport

using principles and practices employed in the

development of the Heysen and Mawson Trails. By and

large, the Network followed road reserves and, in some

cases, public reserves.

The Network is intended to provide a variety of loop

routes of different duration as well as access to key

nodes such as pony clubs and with the ultimate aim

of providing a route linking Belair National Park to

Kuitpo Forest.

At the time the network was approved Council was

aware that there were issues which would require

further investigation in relation to legal rights of access

to parts of the road reserve, to reserves generally and

the associated environmental impact. However, Council

agreed to proceed with the implementation of the plan

on those trails which were relatively easy to establish in

the first instance.

To date some 37 km of the original network have been

cleared and marked by volunteers of the HVHOA in

conjunction with Council, with the estimated remaining

length being approximately 65 km.

The Tom Roberts Horse Trail is now incorporated in the

City of Onkaparinga Trails Network Strategy, the Belair

National Park Management Plan and the draft Sturt

Gorge Recreation Park Management Plan. In addition,

promotional material has been prepared including

brochures and trail head signs. An example of a trail

head sign, which includes some historical information as

well as a code of practice is included on page 67.

ACCESS SOLUTIONS

To bring the trail to its current near-completion status,

Horse SA (which was established by Horse Owners of

the Southern Mt Lofty Ranges to continue a range of

projects in a more formal way) has been working with

the City of Onkaparinga, through the Horse Initiatives

Group, to continue to roll out the Tom Roberts Horse

Trail to completion.


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The following examples demonstrate a range of access

solutions which have been employed.

TRAIL SECTION DESCRIPTOR SOLUTION

Belair National

Park

Secure ongoing horse Participate in a number of public consultation activities and

processes relating to recreational activities taking place within the

recreational reserve

Corner Cherry

Gardens and

Orchard Roads,

Cherry Gardens

Safer passage for trail

users required on a

bend in the road

Discussions with landholder resulted in “setting back” the adjacent

property fence line so that trail users can receive protection as they are

now off the main carriage-way. Private land use agreement was required

Lovick Road,

Clarendon

Access required to

link Onkaparinga Hills

with Clarendon

Very steep unmade road reserve is the only option. To ensure

sustainability, trail corridor is closed from June to October each year

(winter period). Signage indicating that experienced riders only to

attempt trail

Weymouth Road,

Coromandel East

Access required

to link on area of

Cherry Gardens with

Coromandel East

Steep unmade road reserve, un-fenced, with creek at the bottom.

Signage indicates that only experienced riders are to use this section,

and that the trail corridor is closed when wet (sustainability). Annual

works need to take place to keep blackberry infestation in control to

ensure access along riparian zone

Mundoo Land,

Adelaide Hills

Council

Steep corridor, under

power lines. High

erosion site

This site, which was bulldozed as a 20m wide zone through native

vegetation for powerline installation purposes, is located on a steep

slope, in a high rainfall area. The site proved to be very prone to erosion

when used as a trail and closure on environmental grounds threatened

the trail network. The site is now managed (and greatly enhanced)

through the installation of infrastructure, being horse friendly steps,

which have allowed the vegetation to grow back thickly either side

Urban horse

trail corridor,

Happy Valley

(City of

Onkaparinga)

Encroaching housing

had removed a

range of horse riding

opportunities, coupled

with a change in by-laws

which prohibited horse

riding on Council land

A number of processes were used to engage Council and horse riders

in identifying trail corridor opportunities. A special “Horse Access

Working Party” made up of Council Staff, residents, community

group representatives and horse riders, with support from a recreation

consulting firm was established. Significant achievements were made to

“retrofit” land available under a row of major power line towers, linked

with local parks and a public horse riding area to produce an urban horse

trail experience

Glory Road, Peter’s

Creek, City of

Onkaparinga

Unmade road reserve

had an exit point side-on

to a narrow bridge

Neighbouring landholders wished to purchase a nearby unmade road

reserve. Council negotiated a price adjustment in exchange for use of

a narrow strip of land to ensure that safe access for users onto Peters

Creek Road could be obtained

Land, off Piggot

Range Road,

Clarendon

Safe passage for riders

required off a bend

Considerable public processes, including professional mediation

between community groups, were undertaken to achieve this excellent

result. The native vegetation block was scheduled for council disposal.

To ensure ongoing access around the boundary, the determination

was that a strip of land was excised from the block and a legal access

corridor created, to adjoin the unmade road reserve on the opposite

boundary. Vegetation surveys determined where a new fence should be

erected and now a new boundary trail exists

Woodcroft

Precinct,

City of

Onkaparinga

Retrofit horse access

trails into suburban

housing estates

A consultant has developed a “checklist” for horse trail recommendation

to Council. This has proven to be a most successful process, with the last

one providing no objections from residents


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CS

Figure 16: Trail Head sign for the Tom Roberts Horse Trail


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9.4 C A S E S T U DY 3 : U N M A D E R OA D R E S E R V E S A S T R A I L C O R R I D O R S

Unmade road reserves are linear corridors that are not

developed or formed. They traverse South Australia

providing connections through the landscape. Many

unmade road reserves have been incorporated into

recreational trails providing strategic linkages along the

trail or as connectors/spur trails. Some of these trails

have been formalised while others have developed

informally over time or are known only to local users.

Unmade road reserves have other values which need

to be considered. These include biodiversity and

remnant vegetation protection, watercourses, cultural

(Indigenous and European) or use for services such

as powerlines, cables, farmer access and buffer zones

between differing land uses. With increasing pressure

from peri-urban and rural development, the value of

unmade roads has been enhanced.

Formalised (marked and signed) trails can offer

unmade road reserves a level of management

that they may not have previously experienced,

including defined trail ‘edges’, directing users along

a designated pathway and sustainable management

treatments for watercourses. Entry and exit systems

for proposed users, revegetation programs and

maintenance schedules provide management structures

aiding risk mitigation processes for Councils and

adjacent landowners.

BACKGROUND

Unmade road reserves have the following

characteristics:

• They are linear corridors that are not developed or

formed and thus do not have a defined carriageway

or verge. Other land parcels, with independent

ownership, border them.

• They are public roads managed by Local Government

authorities via the Local Government Act 1999.

• Local Councils are responsible for the care and

control of road reserves in the absence of any

agreement to the contrary.

• Local Councils manage many unmade road

reserves through lease arrangements with

neighbouring landowners.

• Some local Councils have Road Reserve Management

Plans. Unmade road reserves may be referenced in

other Council documents, including Recreation, Sport

and Open Space Plans, Council Trail Strategies and

Native Vegetation surveys.

• Councils can manage road reserves in a number of

ways in accordance with a number of Acts, which

impinge on them. These acts are available at

www.parliament.sa.gov.au.

ACT MANAGEMENT SPECIFICS

FOR ROAD RESERVES

Local Government Act 1999

For the care and responsibility of road reserves, the granting of authorisations and permits, and making of by laws

Roads (Opening & Closing) Act 1991

For the closing and opening of roads

Road Traffic Act 1961

For the management of traffic on road reserves

Summary Offences Act 1953

For the management of traffic on roads in special situations

Country Fires Act 1989

For the management of fires on roads

Native Vegetation Act 1991

For the management of native vegetation on road reserves

TRAIL PLANNING

When investigating trail route options, it will be

important to identify the location of road reserves with

the aid of a topographical map with a cadastre overlay.

A site visit should be undertaken to provide a visual

assessment of the corridor and to determine its level

of opportunity for inclusion in the trail proposal.

Alternative route options should also be identified.

During a site visit, the following aspects should

be considered:

• Is the corridor single or double fenced?

• What is the existing use (grazing, thoroughfare for

tractors, etc)?

• Is the terrain suitable for the intended use?

• What is the condition of the land in winter and

summer?

• Are there natural obstacles interfering with the line of

sight?

• Is there a weed management issue?

• If there is a watercourse, is there a natural crossing or

will a ford or other infrastructure be required?


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• What is the vegetation mix i.e. native/exotic?

• Are there possible encroachments? Boundaries may

be ‘fuzzy’ until surveyed.

• What are the budget implications? Can the trail be

constructed in stages?

A meeting with local Council Officers should be

arranged to discuss the unmade road reserve and its

options and implications for inclusion in a trail proposal.

Council issues may include:

• existing leases or permits on the reserve

• native Vegetation Surveys. (If a trail proposal may

have a negative impact on native vegetation, there

will be a need to demonstrate how the impacts will

be managed)

• rare, threatened or endangered species that may be

present in the locality

• indigenous and European heritage

• development proposals for the area

• how the proposal fits with existing recreational, open

space and other strategic plans at a local, regional

and state level

• management strategy for the corridor if utilised, and

responsibilities short and long term

• cost to Council, i.e. human and financial resources.

Following the initial planning phase, it will be necessary

for both the Trail Manager(s) and Council Officer(s)

to complete detailed investigations and document

the findings, seek approvals from Local and State

Authorities and consult with the community. This will

involve numerous site visits and meetings. Once the

necessary approvals have been obtained, the on-

ground works will need to be implemented.

With the support of trail managers and local Councils,

unmade road reserves can become valuable trail

connectors for the community and the regions visitors.

An unmade road reserve at Macclesfield provides one

such example.

Following consultation with the District Council of

Mt Barker, and their approval for the Kidman Trail to

traverse the council region, the unmade road reserve

off Davis Road at Macclesfield was investigated to be

incorporated into the trail, providing for walkers, bike

riders and horse riders.

During the planning phase of this unmade road reserve

the following matters were identified:

• vegetation was overgrown with weeds

• the watercourse needed to be better managed

• double fencing existed in places (southern side fence

not on reserve boundary).

• a native vegetation survey of the reserve was

required

• there were Council leases

• adjacent landowners were supportive of managed

recreational use.

• trail resources available: trail manager, Council

Officer, budget, Green Corp team

• entry and exit stiles to cater for the three user groups

were required

• vehicle gates for council access were required.


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Photo 32: September 2004 pathway evident, vegetation overgrown

Photo 33: March 2007 vegetation cleared, trail/ access

Photo 34: March 2007 Entry/exit access to corridor established, managed, stile to the right of the gate

Photo 35: The unmade road reserve is clearly defined by the established trees. The recreational trail corridor is sited between the trees. March 2007 (Photos 32 to 35 courtesy of Office for Recreation & Sport)

The following images illustrate the transformation

to this reserve, securing it as part of the State’s

trail network.


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A P P E NDICE S

APPENDIX A:

SUMMARY OF TRAIL CLASSES

APPENDIX B:

TRAILS CATEGORISATION SYSTEM

APPENDIX C:

TRAILS PLANNING, DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION CHECKLIST

APPENDIX D:

GLOSSARY

APPENDIX E:

REFERENCES AND USEFUL WEBSITES

APPENDIX F:

EXAMPLE PROMOTIONAL BROCHURE: RIESLING TRAIL

DRAFT

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APPENDIX A: S U M M A RY O F T R A I L C L A S S E S

72

A P P E N D I X A - S U M M A R Y O F T R A I L C L A S S E S

TRAIL TYPE: WALKING

TRAIL CLASS TRAIL CHARACTERISTICS/DESCRIPTION

Class 1 Opportunity for large numbers of visitors, including those with reduced mobility, to undertake walks which are provided with a high level of interpretation and facilities.

Users can expect abundant opportunities to learn about the natural environment through interpretive signs or brochures.

Users can expect frequent encounters with others.

Class 2 Opportunity for large numbers of visitors to walk easily in natural environments which are provided with a moderate to high level of interpretation and facilities.

Users can expect to learn about the natural environment with moderate to abundant opportunities to learn through interpretive signs or brochures.

Users can expect frequent encounters with others.

Class 3 Opportunity for visitors to walk in slightly modified natural environments requiring a moderate level of fitness and where the provision of interpretation and facilities is not common.

Users can expect opportunities to observe and appreciate the natural environment with limited provision of interpretive signage.

Users can expect occasional encounters with others.

Class 4 Opportunity for visitors to explore and discover relatively undisturbed natural environments along defined and distinct tracks with minimal (if any) facilities.

Users can expect opportunities to observe and appreciate the natural environment without provision of interpretive signage.

Users can expect opportunities for solitude with few encounters with others.

Class 5 Opportunity for visitors with advanced outdoor knowledge and skills to find their own way along often indistinct tracks in remote locations.

Users can expect frequent opportunities for solitude with few encounters with others.

Class 6 Opportunity for highly experienced walkers to explore remote and challenging natural areas without reliance on managed tracks.

Users can expect extended periods of solitude with few encounters with others.

Source: Refer to (AS 2156.1 – 2001)



M O U N TA I N B I K E – U S E R G U I D E

VERY EASY EASIEST MORE DIFFICULT

VERY DIFFICULT

EXTREMELY DIFFICULT

Description Likely to be a fire road or wide single track with a gentle gradient, smooth surface and free of obstacles.

Frequent encounters are likely with other cyclists, walkers, runners and horse riders.

Likely to be a combination of fire road or wide single track with a gentle gradient, smooth surface and relatively free of unavoidable obstacles.

Short sections may exceed these criteria.

Frequent encounters are likely with walkers, runners, horse riders and other cyclists.

Likely to be a single trail with moderate gradients, variable surface and obstacles.

Likely to be a challenging single trail with steep gradients, variable surface and many obstacles.

Extremely difficult trails will incorporate very steep gradients, highly variable surface and unavoidable, severe obstacles.

Suitable for Beginner/ novice cyclists. Basic bike skills required.

Suitable for most bikes.

Beginner/ novice cyclists. Basic bike skills required.


Beginner/ novice cyclists. Basic bike skills required.


Experienced mountain bikers with good skills.

Suitable for better quality mountain bikes.

Highly experienced mountain bikers with excellent skills. Suitable for quality mountain bikes.

Fitness Level

Most people in good health.

Most people in good health.

A good standard of fitness.

Higher level of fitness.

Higher level of fitness.

Trail Width Two riders can ride side by side.

Shoulder width or greater.

Handlebar width or greater.

Can be less than handlebar width.

Can be less than handlebar width.

Trail Surface and obstacles

Hardened with no challenging features on the trail.

Mostly firm and stable. Trail may have obstacles such as logs, roots and rocks.

Possible sections of rocky or loose tread. Trail will have obstacles such as logs, roots and rocks.

Variable and challenging.

Unavoidable obstacles such as logs, roots, rocks drop-offs or constructed obstacles.

Widely variable and unpredictable. Expect large, committing and unavoidable obstacles.

Trail Gradient

Climbs and descents are mostly shallow.

Climbs and descents are mostly shallow, but trail may include some moderately steep sections.

Mostly moderate gradients but may include steep sections.

Contains steeper descents or climbs.

Expect prolonged steep, loose and rocky descents or climbs.

Taken from IMBA Australia – Trail Difficulty Rating System 2013

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M O U N TA I N B I K E – L A N D M A N A G E R S G U I D E

VERY EASY EASIEST MORE DIFFICULT

VERY DIFFICULT

EXTREMELY DIFFICULT

Description Likely to be a fire road or wide single track with a gentle gradient, smooth surface and free of obstacles.

Frequent encounters are likely with other cyclists, walkers, runners and horse riders

Likely to be a combination of fire road or wide single track with a gentle gradient, smooth surface and relatively free of unavoidable obstacles.

Short sections may exceed these criteria.

Frequent encounters are likely with walkers, runners, horse riders and other cyclists

Likely to be a single trail with moderate gradients, variable surface and obstacles.

Dual use or preferred use.

Optional lines desirable

Likely to be a challenging single trail with steep gradients, variable surface and many obstacles.

Single use and direction.

Optional lines XC, DH or trails

Extremely difficult trails will incorporate very steep gradients, highly variable surface and unavoidable, severe obstacles.

Single use and direction.

Optional lines XC, DH or trails

Trail Width 2100mm plus or minus 900mm

900mm plus or minus 300mm for tread or bridges

600mm plus or minus 300mm for tread or bridges

300mm plus or minus 150mm for tread or bridges.

Structures can vary.

150mm plus or minus 100mm for tread or bridges.

Structures can vary

Trail Surface

Hardened or smooth

Mostly firm and stable Possible sections of rocky loose tread

Variable and challenging

Widely variable and unpredictable

Average Trail Grade

Climbs and descents are mostly shallow.

Less than 5% average

Climbs and descents are mostly shallow, but may include some moderately steep sections.

7% or less average.

Mostly moderate gradients but may include steep sections.

10% or less average

Contains steeper descents or climbs.

20% or less average

Expect prolonged steep, loose and rocky descents or climbs.

20% or greater average

Maximum Trail Grade

Max 10% Max 15% Max 20% or greater Max 20% or greater Max 40% or greater

Level of Trail Exposure

Firm and level fall zone to either side of trail corridor

Exposure to either side of trail corridor includes downward slopes of up to 10%

Exposure to either side of trail corridor includes downward slopes of up to 20%

Exposure to either side of trail corridor includes steep downward slopes or freefall

Exposure to either side of trail corridor includes steep downward slopes or freefall

Natural Obstacles and Technical Trail Features (TTF’s)

No obstacles Unavoidable obstacles to 50mm (2”) high, such as logs, roots and rocks.

Avoidable, rollable obstacles may be present.

Unavoidable bridges 900mm wide.

Short sections may exceed criteria

Unavoidable, rollable obstacles to 200mm (8”) high, such as logs, roots and rocks.

Avoidable obstacles to 600mm may be present.


Width of deck is half the height.


Unavoidable obstacles to 380mm (15”) high, such as logs, roots, rocks, drop-offs or constructed obstacles.



Width of deck is half the height.


Large, committing and unavoidable obstacles to 380mm (15”) high.


Unavoidable bridges 600mm or narrower.

Width of bridges is unpredictable.


Taken from IMBA Australia – Trail Difficulty Rating System 2013

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DRAFT

H O R S E T R A I L C L A S S I F I C AT I O N S

EASIEST INTERMEDIATE ADVANCED

Description Most likely to be fire roads or wide single tracks (bridlepaths) with a gentle gradient (not exceeding 10%), smooth surface and a relatively obstacle free, hardened natural surface

Frequent encounters are likely with other users including cyclists, walkers and runners.

Intermediate Trails are most likely to be a combination single trail and/or fire road with obstacles, variable surface, and a moderate slope.

Intermediate Trails are likely to be multi-use so encounters with other users including cyclists, walkers, runners and horse riders should be expected.

Advanced Trails are most likely to consist of challenging single trail and/or fire road with many obstacles, variable surface, and steep sections. Some trail routes may not be marked at all.

Advanced Trails may possibly be multi-use so encounters with other users possibly including cyclists, walkers, vehicles and other stock should be expected, however, many of these trails may be located in remote areas and encounters with others is expected to be minimal.

Suitable for Most suitable for novices; social groups and others seeking a relatively short distance trail requiring a basic level of skills and horse and rider fitness.

Intermediate Trails are most suitable for individuals and smaller social groups seeking a short to medium distance trail requiring a moderate level of skill and fitness.

Advanced Trails are suitable for individuals and small social groups seeking a very challenging trail requiring a high level of skill, fitness, and basic navigation skills.

Level of skill / experience

Novices will require a basic level of riding skill and fitness is required coupled with riding on a trained, experienced horse.

An intermediate level of riding skill & fitness is required, and a horse with some trail experience & training is recommended. Knowledge of Basic horse health including first aid and conditioning requirements is highly desirable.

A higher level of skill and fitness is required. Navigation and personal survival skills are highly desirable. Previous riding experience essential. Packing skills may be required. Map reading skills and horse health knowledge is essential.

An experience guide is recommended for riders with limited remote area experience

Trail Corridor

(Width)

(Height)

(Min.) 3m

(Min.) 3.7m

(Min.) 1.5m

(Min.) 3.7m

Min. 1.5m

Min. 2.5m

Tread

(Minimum Width)

1.5 m

Note: Short sections of narrower tread (.60 m to 1.2 m) are acceptable at ground level however 1.5 metres is required at the height of the riders stirrups.

1.5 m

Note: Short sections of narrower tread (.60 m to 1.2 m) are acceptable at ground level however 1.5 metres is required at the height of the riders stirrups.

Min. 30 cm

Note: 1.5 metres is recommended at the height of the riders stirrups

Trail Surface Generally a natural surface (topped with dolomite or compacted surface if desired).

Hardened surfaces like concrete or asphalt to be avoided due to concussion on horse legs and poor traction with metal horseshoes.

Hardened surfaces may be utilised on Rail Trails or other tracks where horses would generally only walk.

Generally a natural surface is desired and may include sections of rocky ground, sand, clay or gravel.

Obstacles such as rocks, logs and gates that require dismounting are likely. Shallow ford crossings are acceptable. (Note: SA rainfall conditions vary widely - seasonal conditions may water depths significantly)

Usually a variable surface with sections of rock, sand, clay gravel, etc. Obstacles may include challenging rocks, logs, fording creeks

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DRAFT

H O R S E T R A I L C L A S S I F I C AT I O N S ( C O N T I N U E D )

EASIEST INTERMEDIATE ADVANCED

Distance 0-14km Maximum 14km Advanced Trails can be any length.

Trail Gradient Desired gradient 0 – 10%

Maximum 10%

Maximum sustained pitch 5%

Out slope 4% maximum

Maximum 15%

Maximum sustained pitch 10%.

Out slope 4% maximum

Maximum 20% (Max. sustained pitch 10%.)

On-trail facilities

Facilities along the trail may include mounting blocks, step overs, shallow fords, bridges, watering points, interpretative and/or management signs.

Facilities along the trail may include lookouts, bridges, watering points, interpretative and/or management signs, step overs, shallow ford crossings.

Generally facilities are not provided except in relation to specific safety or environmental considerations. Stock holding yards and watering points will be identified on maps but may not necessarily be specifically provided as part of the trail. Permission to access these facilities may be required.

Trailhead facilities

The trailhead will be marked with a sign, specifying the name, distance, classification, multi-use code of conduct and other relevant information.

Trailhead facilities may include car and separate horse float parking, manure receptacle, map dispensers, toilets, drinking water and information shelters.

Trailhead facilities may include overnight yarding for horses.

(Facilities will be dependent on the number of visitors using the trail or other attractions in the area.)

The trailhead will be marked with a sign, specifying the name, distance, classification, multi-use code of conduct and other relevant information. Trailhead facilities may include car parking and separate horse float parking, toilets, drinking water, map dispensers and information shelters. (Facilities will be dependent on the number of visitors using the trail or other attractions in the area.)

The trailhead will be marked with a sign, specifying the name, distance, classification, multi-use code of conduct (if relevant) and possibly management information. Trailhead facilities may include car and float parking, drinking water. (Facilities will be dependent on the number of visitors using the trail or other attractions in the area.)

Recommended trail flow

Open and Flowing Generally flowing with some more challenging sections

none

There may be circumstances where trails with

a surface and slope similar to Class 1 exceed

the suggested distance. These trails should be

upgraded to Class 2 or 3.

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APPENDIX B: T R A I L C AT E G O R I S AT I O N S Y S T E M

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TRAIL TYPE: NATIONAL TRAILS

Examples: Heysen Trail (Sections thereof – when Management Plan prepared)

Mawson Trail

HMAS Hobart dive trail

CHARACTERISTICS KEY INDICATORS

1. Sustainability • The trail has a comprehensive Management Plan that provides for compliance with social,

environmental and economic expectations, sustainable design and management, maintenance,

evaluation, monitoring, data collection and secure land tenure

• The trail can generate economic surpluses to contribute towards trail maintenance and operation

requirements

• The trail has commitment at the State level for ongoing development, maintenance and the provision

of appropriate infrastructure to meet the needs and expectations of the range of users

• The trail raises environmental and cultural awareness through effective interpretative and

educational initiatives

• The trail provides positive environmental benefits

2. Quality • The trail is iconic or uniquely South Australian in its character

• The trail is associated with outstanding natural and cultural features

• The trail attracts international or interstate visitors in its own right

• The trail provides excellent, unique and memorable experiences that facilitate visitor

recommendation and return visitation

• Has a discrete identity and trail name

• The trail is marketed to international and national audiences through websites, magazines,

promotional brochures, travel guides and promoted internationally through inbound travel agencies

• The trail is regularly connected with major events that are marketed and attract international and

interstate visitation

• The trail has an official trail guide published by the trail manager and interest groups may produce

supplementary trail booklets and guides

3. Economic benefits to SA

• The trail attracts a high level of international and interstate visitation

• The trail significantly contributes to the network of tourism and cultural attractions of the State

• Local business and tourism operators support and promote the trail

4. Lifestyle, health and social well-being

• The trail is of high interest and regularly utilised by a range of users or user groups

• The trail is regularly utilised for events

• A community support group exists for the cooperative management of the trail; e.g. Friends of

Heysen Trail

• The trail provides interpretative and educational opportunities

Source: Derived from Draft Recreational Trails Strategy for South Australia 2005–2010


TO ORGANISATIONS IN THE RECREATION INDUSTRY. 78


TRAIL TYPE: REGIONAL TRAILS

Examples: River Torrens Linear Park

Alligator Gorge Hike

Tom Roberts Trail

Port Noarlunga Reef

Katarapko Canoe Trail

CHARACTERISTICS

1. Sustainability • The trail has a Management Plan or is included in a Management Plan for an area (e.g. National Park

Management Plan, Local Government Open Space or Recreation Plan) to provide for compliance

with social, environmental and economic expectations, sustainable design and management,

maintenance, evaluation, monitoring, data collection and secure land tenure

• The trail has resources to contribute to trail maintenance and operation requirements

• The trail has commitment from the land manager for ongoing development, maintenance and the

provision of appropriate infrastructure to meet the needs and expectations of the range of users

• The trail raises environmental and cultural awareness through effective interpretative and

educational initiatives


2. Quality • The trail attracts interstate and intrastate visitors

• The trail is associated with excellent natural and cultural features

• Trail information is available to national audiences through websites, promotional brochures, maps

and travel guides

• Has a discrete identity and trail name

3. Economic benefits to the Region

• The trail attracts a high level of interstate and intrastate visitation

• The trail significantly contributes to the network of tourism and cultural attractions of the region

• Local business and tourism operators support and promote the trail


• The trail is of high interest and regularly utilised by a range of users or user groups

• The trail is regularly utilised for local events





The key indicators should be used as a guide and not a

definitive test. If a trail fails to fully meet one or two key

indicators then it may still be considered to be within

category but requires review or improvement in those

areas. Failure to meet three or more key indicators

suggests that the trail is not of that category. Trails that

do not demonstrate sufficient characteristics may be

classified as unsustainable trails.

TRAIL TYPE: LOCAL TRAILS

Examples: Christie’s Creek Trail

Yulti Wirra Track, Belair National Park

Mitcham Quarry Trail

CHARACTERISTICS

1. Sustainability • The trail may (and desirably should) be included in a Management Plan for an area to provide

for compliance with social, environmental and economic expectations, sustainable design and

management, maintenance, evaluation, monitoring, data collection and secure land tenure;

e.g. Local Government Open Space Strategy or Park Management Plan.

• The trail has commitment at the community level for maintenance; e.g. local Council or Community

Group performs regular maintenance work

• The trail raises environmental and cultural awareness through visitation and trail experiences


2. Quality • The trail attracts intrastate and local visitors

• The trail is associated with good or excellent natural and cultural features

• Trail information is available; e.g. a trail brochure or on-site signs provide information

• The trail integrates and connects with Regional, State or National Trails where possible

3. Economic benefits to the community

• The trail attracts intrastate and local visitation

• The trail contributes to the network of tourism and cultural attractions of the locality

• The trail integrates with local business where possible


• The trail is of high interest and regularly utilised by the community


• The trail provides local recreational opportunities


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PLANNINGTICK BOX WHEN COMPLETED

Establish a Working Group

Identify purpose of the trail

Identify the target market

Undertake preliminary consultation with land manager, local council and relevant Government agencies

Prepare a Project Plan

Assess the supply and demand for recreational trails in the area

Seek ‘in-principle’ endorsement from land manager, local council and relevant Government agencies

Undertake consultation with users, neighbouring property owners and the wider community

FEASIBILITY STUDYTICK BOX WHEN COMPLETED

Determine the need of the trail – establish trail classification

Identify likely patterns of usage and needs of user groups

Provide details of planning process including required approvals

Identify connections and linkages to other trails, facilities and tourist attractions

Identify partnerships

Estimate likely community support

Address environmental matters

Address cultural and heritage considerations

Undertake on-ground assessment

Prepare concept design

Consider management and maintenance matters

Estimate the likely cost of construction and ongoing management

Identify funding opportunities

Conclusion – is the trail feasible or not?

(Checklist continues on next page)

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APPROVALSTICK BOX WHEN COMPLETED

Obtain formal approval from land manager / owner

Obtain required development approvals from the local council

Obtain necessary permits from Government agencies

Formalise partnership agreements and MOU’s

DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTIONTICK BOX WHEN COMPLETED

Determine the trail system – loop or linear?

Determine classification

Confirm if single or shared-use

Identify the route of the trail on a topographical map

Follow the contours

Consider erosion control

Avoid areas of environmental and cultural significance

Consider safety issues

Flag the route of the trail on the ground

Determine the surface of the trail

Determine trail markers and information signage

Consider other facilities such as toilets, shelters etc

MANAGEMENT AND MAINTENANCETICK BOX WHEN COMPLETED

Confirm partnership agreements

Develop maintenance schedules

Monitor and evaluate the trail

Prepare promotional and marketing material

(Checklist continues from previous page)

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APPENDIX D: G L O S S A RYBackslope: The angle of the back wall of a

benched trail.

Bicycle SA: The peak non-Government organisation

for cycling.

Biodiversity: Meaning biological diversity, the variety

of all living things and how they relate to each other in

the environment.

Canoe SA: The peak non-Government organisation

for canoeing.

Clinometer: A device that measures the angle of a

slope or trail.

Crown land: Land under the ownership of the State of

South Australia. Normally managed and administered

by State Government or placed in the care and control

of the relevant Local Government Authority.

DEH: Department for Environment & Heritage, South

Australia now DEWN.R

DEWNR: Department of Environment Water and

Natural Resources.

Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD): ESD

or ‘sustainability’ is the optimal balance of natural,

economic, and social systems so as to meet the needs

of the present without compromising the ability of

future generations to meet their own needs.

ForestrySA: ForestrySA manages the state owned

forest resource in South Australia. It primarily provides

softwood logs to the South Australian saw milling

industry. ForestrySA also manages native forest areas

for conservation.

Forest Reserve: Pursuant to the Forestry Act, 1950 this

is Crown land the Governor declares to be for planting

with trees; protecting those trees to ensure their proper

growth; and to establish, maintain, and operate mills,

plant and machinery for the milling and treatment of

such trees and timber.

Full bench cut: A feature of trails on steep terrain

where the downward force of the trail user is directed

into the hill rather than a retaining wall. The fill from the

cut is removed and not used to widen the trail. This kind

of trail is strong and sustainable but is still cambered

(outsloped) to allow surface runoff to drain directly off

the trail.

GIS: Geographic Information System (computerised

mapping and data system).

Grade: Grade is the angle or steepness of a particular

slope or trail. It is measured by a clinometer.

Grade reversal: A change in pitch that is used to slow

bike riders down and/or drain water off the trail.

Horse SA: The peak non-Government organisation for

the horse industry.

Local Government: Collective term for more than one

(usually all) local Councils.

MTB: Mountain Bike.

National Park: Pursuant to National Parks and Wildlife

Act, 1972 this is Crown land the Governor considers to

be of national significance by reason of the wildlife or

natural features of that land.

Native Forest Reserve: Pursuant to the Forestry Act,

1950 this is Crown land the Governor declares to be for

the conservation, development and management of

land supporting native flora and fauna.

ORS: Office for Recreation and Sport, South Australia.

Outslope: The camber of a trail which is angled from

the inside down to the outside of the trail at about 3 to

5% grade. This is used to promote effective drainage.

Partial bench: This cut is not as strong as a full bench

so it is used on less steep slopes to traverse the hillside.

The partial bench may include a retaining wall of rocks

or logs to achieve a suitable tread surface because

the downward force is not as great as on the steeper

terrain. The fill from the cut is often used to build up the

outside of the trail.

Peak User Groups: Collective term for two or more

peak non-Government organisations (e.g. Horse SA and

Bicycle SA).

Phytophthora: A water borne fungus that kills certain

native plants. It can be spread easily with spores in

mud and soil that attach to hiking boots, bike tires and

horses’ feet. It is also known as dieback and PC.

PIRSA: Department of Primary Industries and

Resources South Australia.

Pitch: See “grade”.

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Public land: Public lands includes land set aside for

nature conservation and various government or public

purposes, as well as vacant land.

Recreation SA: The peak body for Recreation in

South Australia.

Recreation Park: Pursuant to National Parks and

Wildlife Act, 1972 this is land that should, in the

Governor’s opinion, be conserved and managed for

public recreation and enjoyment.

Riparian: The vegetation, landforms and fauna

associated with a creek or tributary.

Rolling grade dip (RGDs): Trail drainage controls

that are scalloped from the trail with a subsequent

rise. These controls are easy to negotiate and

highly sustainable.

SATC: South Australian Tourism Commission.

SATCC: South Australian Trails Coordinating Committee.

Scuba Diving Federation of SA: The peak non-

Government organisation for scuba diving.

Single track: Trail just wide enough for one person

or bike.

Stile: A constructed device which provides access to a

user group to a trail, usually through a fence. Different

designs are available to suit walkers and horse riders.

Switchback: A sharp turn, usually 180 degrees, that

allows the trail user to turn on a level surface to

traverse a steep slope. It is a constructed turn that

drains effectively and provides enough room to change

direction safely. The approach and exit will often be at

an angle/grade of 5 to 15%. These turns are sometimes

called a hairpin corner.

Trail Categories: Refers to the Local, Regional or

National status of trails.

Trail Classifications: Refers to the nature and

characteristics of trails: e.g. easy walk, technically

challenging mountain bike ride or canoe trail requiring a

high level of experience.

Tread: The base of the trail that users travel upon.

Rocks, soil, imported aggregate, wood, grass and tree

roots may be part of the tread. The width of the trail

depends on the intended purpose and potential users.

Unmade road reserves: Land previously set aside or

‘reserved’ for road construction but not utilised for

that purpose.

Walking SA: The Walking Federation of SA, peak non-

Government organisation for walking.

Water bar: A traditional erosion control for steep trails

which consists of a large or small lump of soil in the

trail which has an angle of 30 to 45 degrees from the

perpendicular bisector of the trail. This angle or skew

directs water from the trail.

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APPENDIX E: R E F E R E N C E S A N D U S E F U L W E B S I T E S

REFERENCES

TRAIL DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION

Drew, Grocke and Cahalan (2003) Guidelines for

Producing Trail Signage

Flink, Olka and Searns (2002) Trails for the Twenty-First

Century: Planning, Design, and Management Manual for

Multi-Use Trails

International Mountain Bicycle Association (2001)

Building Better Trails: Designing, Constructing and

Maintaining Outstanding Trails

International Mountain Bicycle Association (2004) Trail

Solutions: IMBA’s Guide to Building Sweet Singletrack

International Mountain Bike Association (2007)

Managing Mountain Biking: IMBA’s Guide to Providing

Great Riding

Marshall (2006) Walking Track Handbook

National Parks and Wildlife South Australia (1998)

Planning and Design Guidelines for Visitor Facilities in

South Australian Park

Office for Recreation and Sport (2005)

Draft Recreational Trails Strategy for South Australia

2005-2010

Parker, (2004) Natural Surface Trails by Design

Pine Rivers Shire Council (2004) Recreation Trails –

Planning, Construction and Maintenance

South Australian Department for Environment

and Heritage (2002) Publications and Signs

Standards Manual

Taylor Culity Lethlean River Murray Sustainable

Recreation: Site Planning and Implementation Guide

U.S. Forest Service (2000) Trail Construction and

Maintenance Notebook

MISCELLANEOUS

Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey (ERASS) (2001-

2006), Australian Sports Commission

Trails Research Project (2004) Market Equity Pty Ltd

STANDARDS

AS 2156.1 – 2001 Walking Tracks – Part 1: Classification

and Signage

AS 2156.2 – 2001 Walking Tracks – Part 2:

Infrastructure Design Austroads, Guide to Traffic

Engineering Practice, Part 14 – Bicycles (1999)

USEFUL WEBSITES

STRATEGIC PLANS

South Australia’s Strategic Plan:

www.stateplan.sa.gov.au

Planning Strategy for South Australia:

www.planning.sa.gov.au

South Australian Tourism Plan: www.tourism.sa.gov.au

Safety in Numbers – A Cycling Strategy for

South Australia: www.transport.sa.gov.au

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN LEGISLATION

www.legislation.sa.gov.au

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS

Office for Recreation & Sport: http://ors.sa.gov.au/

Department of Environment Water & Natural

Resources: http://www.environment.sa.gov.au

Tourism Commission: http://www.tourism.sa.gov.au/

Department of Planning Transport and Infrastructure

DEPTI: http://www.dpti.sa.gov.au

ForestrySA: http://www.forestry.sa.gov.au

Health SA: http://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

www.lga.sa.gov.au

NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT BOARDS

http://www.environment.sa.gov.au

REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AUSTRALIA BOARDS

https://rda.gov.au

PEAK USER GROUPS

Recreation SA www.recreationsa.org

Bicycle SA: www.bikesa.asn.au

Horse SA: www.horsesa.asn.au

Walking SA: www.walkingsa.org.au

Canoe SA: www.sa.canoe.org.au

Scuba Divers Federation of SA: www.sdfsa.net

FUNDING GRANTS

www.grants.ord.sa.gov.au

www.grantslink.gov.au

www.aph.gov.au/library/intguide/sp/spgrants.htm


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and

CLARE andGILBERT VALLEYSSOUTH AUSTRALIA

Optional loops to cycleThese loops are public roads, thus suited to the moreexperienced cyclist and not recommended for groups orfamilies with young children. Hazards include vehicles,unsealed sections, rough surfaces, narrow winding sectionsand steep inclines. For your safety wear high visibility vestsand cycle the loops during daylight hours only.

John Horrocks loop [9km]

This loop leaves the trail at St Mark’s Church, Penworthamand heads west along Horrocks Road, north along SawmillRoad and east along Spring Gully Road. The loop returns tothe trail at the Sevenhill railway siding.

Father Rogalski (Polish Hill) loop [10km]

This loop starts just north of Penwortham and heads east tothe Polish Hill Valley. The steep ride up the ridge to thehighest point is worth the effort for the magnificent views.The Polish Hill River Church Museum offers an historicalglimpse into the lives of the original Polish settler and theAnnies Lane Reserve is worth a visit.

Spring Gully loop [16km]

This loop heads west along Spring Gully Road following thescenic tourist drive through the Skilly Hills, south to SpringGully Conservation Park. The return section joins Spring GullyRoad finishing at Sevenhill Hotel.

Mawson Trail [900km]

The 900km trail starts in the Adelaide Hills and ends atBlinman in the Flinders Ranges. The trail is for mountain bikeenthusias ts wanting an outback challenge. The trail mergeswith the Riesling Trail between Auburn and Clare thendiverges off towards Burra.

Riverton trailsThere are five trails around Riverton to explore the historiclandmarks and the picturesque Gilbert Valley. The LookoutTrail offers spectacular 360° views of the valley and theDuck Pond Trail takes you to the Gilbert River Lake.

© 2014 Riesling Trail Management Committee. This brochure was produced by theRiesling Trail Management Committee. Information provided was correct at time ofprinting. No part of this publication can be reproduced without permission.

Friends of the Riesling TrailThe Riesling and Rattler Trails are not-for-profit community-based organisationsmanaged by dedicated volunteers. For more information please visitwww.rieslingtrail.com.au and www.rattlertrail.com.au

The Riesling Trail Facebook page is www.facebook.com/rieslingtrail

You can also support the maintenance of the Riesling Trail bybecoming a financial member or using the donation box atthe Lennon Street car park in Clare.

FacilitiesDrinking water is available beside the trail shelters locatedat Watervale, between Sevenhill and Quarry Road and at theLennon Street car park in Clare.

Public toilets are located at Auburn Memorial Park,Watervale oval, Sevenhill cricket ground and Clare Skate Park.

Designated car parks are located at Auburn, Watervale,Sevenhill, Clare and Barinia.

Not permittedMotor bikes (two or four wheeled), vehicles and horses arenot permitted on the trail.

Bike hire Cogwebs 0400 290 687 (Auburn)

Discovery Holiday Park 08 8842 2724 (Clare)

Clare Valley Cycle Hire 0418 802 077 (Clare)

Riesling Trail Bike Hire 0418 777 318 (Clare)

Fun Wheels Pedal Kart Hire 0433 888 482 (Clare)

EMERGENCY SERVICESAmbulance Police Fire 000 [Mobile users 112]

Clare Police Station 08 8842 2711

Clare Hospital 08 8842 6500

Riesling Trail Bro - Jan 2015_Layout 1 22/01/2015 1:40 pm Page 1

Derailed Located 130kms north of Adelaide in the Clare Valley, theRiesling Trail was once part of the railway line from Adelaide toSpalding. Built in stages between 1860 and 1918, the railway’spurpose was to ease mining transport and open up valuableagricultural land. In August 1983 the wavering future of the linewas finally decided; after major sections of the track at Clarewere destroyed in the Ash Wednesday fires the line was closed.

In 1994 the section from Auburn to Clare became the RieslingTrail - the first South Australian conversion of a railway line into arecreational trail for walking and cycling. The trail was instigatedby the Clare Valley Winemakers with funding support from theSouth Australian Government through the Office for Recreationand Sport. The section from Clare to Barinia was opened in 2009.

the Riesling trailAuburn to Barinia [33km]

The best time to use the trail is autumn and spring when thevalley is at its finest while the cooler temperatures areadvantageous for cycling and walking. However every seasonoffers a different reason to visit as the countryside is everchanging and there are special events held throughout theyear. Vintage is between late February and early April and theClare Gourmet Weekend is in mid-May.

The trail is well sign-posted providing distances, directions andservices as well as storyboards with information on the localhistory, the landscape, the Ngadjuri people, the communitiesand local heroes.

While the surface is well compacted making it suitable forrecreational walkers, off-road bicycles, wheelchairs and pramsit is advised you travel with caution at all times. Unforeseencircumstances such as adverse weather may cause damage tothe surface from time to time.

The gradient is relatively easy for regular cyclists, but for thoseless experienced it may prove a challenge. The trail takesapproximately 1.5 to 4 hours to ride one-way, depending onyour fitness, diversions and breaks. The map provides anindication of the gradient and distances.

The picturesque scenery encompasses views of vineyards,bushland, farms, historical buildings and tree-lined laneways.There are plenty of photo opportunities other than just sceneryas the trail is home for an abundance of native flora and fauna.

Other attractions include wineries, cafes, pubs, scenic picnicspots, art galleries, historical sites and wetlands. Sculptures arelocated 500m north of the Lennon Street car park as well asbetween Leasingham and Auburn. For suggestions onalternative rides to suit your needs visit our website.

You can start and finish at either end or where ever you like. As well as designated car parks, the trail can be accessed atseveral locations where public roads cross the trail.

the Rattler trail Riverton to Auburn [19km]

In 2010 the section between Auburn and Riverton known asthe Rattler Trail was opened. The trail, which takes its namefrom the rattling old train that used to work the route, passesthrough farming land, vineyards and near the small township of Rhynie.

Safety firstAccidents are preventable. Keep to the left, be aware of othersnotably runners and cyclists who may wish to pass you as wellas people travelling in the opposite direction. When cycling, avoidexcessive speeds and ring your bell when approaching others.Even though it is a recreational trail the wearing of helmets and a working bell are compulsory as the trail crosses public roads.

Dogs don’t need to be on a lead, but need to be under control.

It is recommended you pace yourself and carry plenty of waterespecially in summer.

Be courteous towards others using the trail and respect privateproperty adjacent to the trail by not entering unless you havepermission.

Riesling Trail Bro - Jan 2015_Layout 1 22/01/2015 1:40 pm Page 2

APPENDIX F: E X A M P L E P R O M OT I O N A L B R O C H U R E : R I E S L I N G T R A I L

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HIRE

HIRE

Mintaro

StanleyFlat White

Hut

Watervale

Leasingham

Riverton

Rhynie

Barinia

Clare

Sevenhill

Penwortham

Auburn

Armagh

Hw

y

Hw

y Bar

rier

Hw

y

Ho

rrocks

Ho

rrocks

Bungaree

Road

Ho

rrocks

Hw

y

Kilikanoon Wines

Reillys Wines

Mintaro Wines

GregCooleyWines

StoneBridgeWines

JeanneretWines

Shut the Gate

Mt SurmonWines

JimBarryWines

Mitchell Wines

Kirrihill Wines

CrabtreeWatervale Wines

EldredgeVineyards

Tim Adams Wines

Stephen John Wines

Claymore Wines

Pikes Wines

clos ClareVineyard

Tim McNeil Wines

Simpson Rices Creek

KoonowlaWines

The WilsonVineyard

O’Leary Walker Wines

SevenhillCellars

TheLittleRed

Grape

Hop & Vine

Annie’s Laneat Quelltaler

Grosset Wines

KnappsteinEnterprises

Tim Gramp Wines

Mr. Mick

Penna Lane Wines

Skillogalee Wines

PaulettWines

Taylors Wines

Mt Horrocks Wines

Mad BastardWines

Vine Art Studio

Clare Rise Bakery

Leasingham Tourist Park

Clare ValleyCabins

& Massage

ClareCountry

Club

DiscoveryHoliday Park

Claymore Wines

Kirrihill WinesClare Rise Bakery

Discovery Holiday Park

Crabtree Watervale Wines


Sevenhill CellarsThe Little Red Grape

Paulett Wines

Clare Country Club

Mathie’s Meat Shop

Clare Valley Cabins & Massage

Leasingham Tourist ParkVine Art Studio

Beckers IGA

Clare Comfort InnClare Hotel

SportsPower Clare

Clare Valley Motel

BUSINESS PARTNERS

Skillogalee Winery & Restaurant

Business Partner

Auburn

Watervale

Leasingham

Clare

Stanley Flat

CELLAR DOORS

Sevenhill

Penwortham

MintaroKilikanoon Wines Reillys Wines

Mintaro Wines

Greg Cooley WinesStone Bridge Wines

Jeanneret Wines

Shut the Gate

Mt Surmon Wines

Jim Barry WinesMad Bastard Wines

Mitchell Wines

Kirrihill Wines

Crabtree Watervale Wines

Eldredge Vineyards

Tim Adams Wines

Stephen John Wines

Claymore Wines

Pikes Polish Hill River Estate

clos Clare Vineyard

Tim McNeil Wines

Simpson Rices Creek

Koonowla Wines

The Wilson Vineyard


Sevenhill Cellars

The Little Red Grape

Hop & Vine

Annie’s Lane at Quelltaler

Grosset Wines

Knappstein Enterprises

Tim Gramp Wines

Mr. Mick

Penna Lane Wines

Skillogalee Wines

Taylors Wines

Mt Horrocks Wines

Paulett Wines

Cellar Door

Spring GullyConservation

Park

BrooksLookout

Quarry HillLookout

Racecourse

Neagles Rock

Spring GullyLookout

Wakefield Rd

Greenwood Park Rd

John Horrocks Cottage

Bungaree Station& museum

GolfCourse

Polish Hill RiverChurch Musem

Martindale Hall

Old PoliceStation Musem

Annies LaneReserve

490m

7km

FatherRogalskiloop

SpringGullyloop

JohnHorrocksloop

Clare400m

White Hut

Barinia397m

Sevenhill465m

Highest Point490m

Penwortham

Watervale415m

Leasingham385m

Rhynie305m

Riverton265m

Auburn312m

446m

1%

1%

1%

1.5%

1%

1.5%

1%

1.5%

1.5%

1%

8km

6km

5km

4km

10km

14km

5km

Public Toilets

Cycling Trail

Visitor Information Centre

Water Tank - Drinking Water

Hotel

Gallery/Studio

Dining

Café

HIREBike Hire

LookoutScenic Views

Airport

Walking Trail

Accommodation

MotorhomeCaravan Park

Riesling Trail

Ratler Trail

Optional loop trails

Mawson Trail

Profile Gradient

N

Map image - © The Riesling Trail, 2015Map data - © Carto Graphics, 2015

1.5%

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RECREATION SA

3/95 King William Road,

Unley SA 5034

(08) 8271 6874

RECREATIONSA.ORG

BICYCLE SA

HORSE SA

CANOE SA

WALKING SA

SCUBA DIVERS

FEDERATION OF SA

TRAILS SUB COMMITTEE OF RECREATION SA

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